I'M Steve Rider, sports presenter at the BBC, and I would like to appeal to any of your readers who are competing in this year's Great North Run, Newcastle on October 6, to join me in supporting Sargent Cancer Care for Children.

For the third year running, I'm backing the leading national children's cancer charity by getting sponsors to help raise vital funds for sick children.

And, I'm calling on my fellow runners who have signed up for the energetic half-marathon challenge from Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead to the coast at South Shields, to pledge their support too.

Every year, more than 2,000 youngsters in the UK get cancer. The trauma and heartache endured by the child and family can be intense and almost unbearable.

Sargent helps from the moment of diagnosis with financial help, practical care and advice. We want to help more children and their families battle against the disease and your support will make a difference.

Sargent Cancer Care for Children will provide you with a full sponsorship pack including fitness and fundraising tips and a t-shirt. Please call our friendly team at Sargent on (020) 8752 2886 and find out how you can help the children.

STEVE RIDER

Sargent Cancer Care for Children

Hammersmith Road

London W6