TEAMS of fund-raising fitness fanatics are being sought for a gruelling charity event next month.

For the whole of July and August staff and members of the Regency Fitness Suite in Blackburn have been taking part in "Commit to Get Fit" -- a national fund-raising event run by the Fitness Industry Association, to encourage members of the public to start exercising and also to raise money for the Imperial Cancer Research Fund. Staff at the Regency Suite are holding the Regency Fitness Challenge in King George's Hall on September 1.

Seven teams of three are wanted to take part in the day, which will start with a bleep test and followed by seven further gruelling events, both physical and mental, including a mini-circuit, rowing relay, treadmill relay and triple relay, together with a fitness knowledge quiz and a sport knowledge quiz.

Friends and family will be able to watch the teams put through their paces for free. Teams who want to get involved with the challenge will be expected to raise sponsor money for Imperial Cancer Research with a prize for the most successful team.

Two of The Regency's equipment suppliers, Lifefitness and Star Trac, have agreed to sponsor trophies and goodie bags.

Manager Gwen Sangster said: "We will be raising money for the Imperial Cancer Campaign and hopefully, this can become an annual event, meaning the winning team would return next year to defend their title."

Businesses or individuals who would like to put a team forward or offer sponsorship should contact the Regency Fitness Suite on 264355.