MORE than 7,000 women took part in York's Race For Life this year and helped raise £450,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Now fundraisers are being asked to join in another challenge in support of the Breast Cancer Campaign.

The charity wants people to get on their bikes and take part in its annual Life Cycle which takes place throughout October.

Participants can choose to cycle 80km over the month, 40km in 24 hours, or set a distance of their own choice.

You do not even need a bike - as fundraisers can also take part on an exercise machine at the gym.

It is hoped the women of York in particular, who tackled the 5km Race For Life around Knavesmire, will be keen to take on this new challenge.

Each year, more than 41,000 women in the UK find out they have breast cancer - which means that 3,400 women will be diagnosed in October alone.

The charity's director of research and policy Arlene Wilkie said: "Regular exercise reduces the risk of a number of diseases including heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, osteoporosis and it may help reduce the risk of breast cancer. What better way to start than taking part in Life Cycle 2006."

People are being urged to get in training now and start raising sponsorship for the charity, which helps 74 projects across the UK.

To apply for a Life Cycle fundraising pack or for more information, phone 020 7749 3700 or email lifecycle@breastcancercampaign.org