Carlisle News & Star journalist Nikki Dodds is feeling the pressure after a local businessman pledged £2,000 in sponsorship if she completes Cancer Research's Race For Life.

Feature writer Nikki, (31), volunteered to take part in the 5km event in Carlisle later this year and approached Gretna Football Club chairman Brooks Mileson as part of her fundraising efforts - initially asking for £50.

But she was shocked when he invited her to his Cumbria home and then wrote out a cheque for £2,000.

Nikki said: "He lost his father-in-law to cancer and when I went to interview him he said he thought what was I was doing was great and ended up pledging £2,000.

"I'm starting to feel the pressure but it will be fine on the day - as long as no one is expecting me to win it!"

Nikki decided to run the race in memory of two of her friends who have both died of cancer - but admits that she doesn't run.

However she has already had some help, including a free personal trainer from a local gym and some free running shoes from a nearby sports shop.

Nikki said: "There's a real community spirit - I've been put in charge of the Race For Life coverage and raising awareness and have started a training diary so people can read how I'm getting on.

"I want other people to see that anyone can do it."