THE Meningitis Research Foundation is on the lookout for East Lancashire slimmers to help the charity raise plenty of cash.

The organisation is staging a 'Slimathon' so people can have extra motivation for their post-Christmas weight loss -- raising money to fund research and care.

People looking to take part in the event and lose some inches from around their waists need to get family, friends and colleagues to sponsor every pound they lose from January to April.

The charity hopes that as the pounds and ounces fall off, the pounds and pennies will pile up and in the process helping Meningitis Research Foundation to fund vital scientific research into the prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis and septicaemia -- the blood poisoning form of the disease -- raise awareness, and offer support and befriending to those affected by the diseases.

Rosemary Conley, the UK's leading diet and fitness expert, who is backing the Slimathon said: "Taking part in the event is a great way for you to support such a worthy cause and lose weight through healthy eating and exercise."

Anyone interested should call the Slimline on 01454 281814 or email fundraising@meningitis.org for an information pack.