Slimmers from across Wharfedale are preparing to burn off a few extra calories by joining the 2003 Race For Life.

Around 30 Weight Watchers members from Ilkley, Burley-in-Wharfedale and Otley will take part in the mass fund-raisingevent at Temple Newsam, Leeds, on June 1.

Made up of all age ranges, the group is hoping to raise as much as it can for Cancer Research UK.

Slimming instructor Audrey Wilson said: "We have people aged from their teens right through to their seventies going to do it. Some will be running and others walking - it's something we'll all be doing at our own pace.

"We encourage exercise to our members anyway and walking is one of the best forms of exercise, and all of our members have been walking more since joining.

"So we'll be hoping to shed some pounds while raising a few pounds for a very worthwhile cause."

Anyone wishing to sponsor the team, or find out more, can contact Audrey by calling (01943) 607293.

l Also in training for the Skipton Race For Life, which takes place a week later on Sunday, June 8, is a 59-strong team from Ilkley's Tesco superstore, made up of staff and their families.

Customer service manager Fiona Lawton is one of many from the team who will be joined by her young children for the event.

She said: "There are a few, like me, who have little ones and will be walking, but we have quite a few running as well, who are training and doing practice trials. "Race For Life, which i, of course, sponsored by Tesco, helps a really good cause and we are all looking forward to what should be a really good day."

Some of the Tesco team from Ilkley are pictured above.