A COMPANY building a section of the new M65 extension is to donate £1 for everyone who takes part in the Motorway Superwalk '97.

The gesture by McAlpine AMEC (joint venture) means that the walk has raised £3,000 before it has even started.

More than 3,000 entries have been received for the event on August 31. It promises to be one of the biggest charity events ever in East Lancashire.

Organisers hope the final entry total will be between 5,000 and 10,000.

Bob Jones, project director for the joint venture, said: "We are working hard to facilitate the walk and by making this contribution we hope that we can encourage even more people to take part."

SuperScan appeal chairman Mike Trickett said: "This is a fantastic offer by the company and we are most grateful - particularly when we consider the effort they are also putting in to get the M65 ready in time for the Superwalk.

"It will give me the greatest pleasure to present the company with a platinum award certificate for its generous support."

The event will take place along the seven-mile stretch from Whitebirk to Riley Green with people walking different distances to suit their ages.

Walkers may start from either the Guide or Earcroft intersections.

To enter the walk call the hotline on 01254 293257 or 01254 294754 after 5pm.

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