The final closing date for the Cancer Research UK event has been extended to midnight on Wednesday.

Almost 900 runners – a record for the Alnwick event – will be taking part in the race, which takes place on Sunday, September 7, but challenge organisers are hoping that the magic 1,000 runner mark can be smashed.

And it is anticipated that this year – the fourth Alnwick Castle run – will contribute more than £50,000 in sponsorship to help fund the charity's life-saving work.

Andy Wilson, Cancer Research UK's Run 10k organiser, said: "We are looking for local people to rise to the challenge and to help us continue our life-saving work.

"Running 10k is an achievable challenge for many people with some training, and participants can even think about challenging their friends and family to take part with them."

The course starts and finishes in the riverside pastures at the foot of the castle walls and takes in the tranquil beauty of Hulne Park, following the banks of the Aln for much of the way.

And there will be a unique twist to the event. The charity is encouraging runners and their supporters to use the event for a domestic clear-out.

Andy added: "Running 10k gives people the chance to head into the great outdoors and get a real sense of achievement when they cross the finishing line.

"But with our Donation Station near the start line, it is also a good way to clear out their homes too and ditch unwanted clothes, books, CDs or DVDs!

"Participants and spectators can bring along unwanted items which will then be sold in Cancer Research UK shops around the north east to help raise additional funds for the charity's life saving work

"As well as the sponsorship money that runners are collecting by taking part in the Run 10k event, they could easily add an extra £30 by dropping off a bag at the Donation Station."

"The funds raised will all go towards Cancer Research UK's pioneering work into preventing, diagnosing and treating different forms of cancer."

To enter visit the charity's web-site www.Run10k.org