MILES the Mouse from Macmillan Cancer Relief collected a cheque from pupils at St Paul's CE Primary School in York following a successful sponsored walk.

The larger-than-life rodent - the mascot for the Macmillan Miles Challenge - took part in the walk itself, which raised money towards Macmillan's £400,000 York appeal to fund three new specialist posts in the city.

Alex Emsley, Macmillan's York appeal co-ordinator, was delighted with the pupils' hard work. She said: "I went along on the day of the sponsored walk and encouraged the children on their various laps.

"Miles the Mouse came with me and he had a great day out. It was wonderful to see the children having so much fun whilst raising money for such an important local Appeal."

York people are being urged to take part in the Macmillan Miles Challenge between May 18 and 25 by covering a mile in whatever way they choose.

Ideas include a walk with family and friends, or those who normally drive to work can walk, run or cycle it instead.

Nothing is too unusual - why not line-dance, bed-push, dog-walk a mile, or lay a mile of coins!

Last year, 30,000 people took part and raised more than £400,000 between them.

Call the hotline on 0845 6021490 to register or to get more information about the Macmillan York Appeal please telephone Alex on 01904 756402.

Updated: 08:56 Saturday, March 22, 2003