HUNDREDS of people will line up on the Downs tomorrow for a fundraising run in support of research into prostate cancer in the city.

Run for the Future, organised by Bristol Rotarians to raise money and awareness about the disease, will be started by Carol Vorderman, who will also be taking part for the first time.

Almost 500 people have registered for the run which raises money for the Bristol Urological Institute's (BUI) Prostate Cancer Appeal.

The 5km run attracts people of all ages, some running in memory of loved ones.

In the first two years of Run for the Future more than £100,000 was raised. It is being used to fund two PhD scientists on the joint BUI and University of the West of England biomedical research team.

They will be evaluating new urine tests to detect the cancer and will also be trying to develop a way to identify life-threatening forms of prostate cancer.

Among the runners will be members of Redwood Lodge Hotel and Country Club's management team.

The Failand hotel is also asking guests to add an optional £1 donation to Run for the Future to their bill to help raise more money for prostate cancer research.

People who cannot run in the event tomorrow can also help the appeal by visiting Carters Steam Fair on the Downs this weekend.

Some of the proceeds from the traditional funfair will be donated to the charity and some of the staff in the city this weekend may also take part in the Run for the Future.

Men will also benefit from free prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood tests to determine whether they may be at risk of prostate cancer.

Special Run for the Future cakes will be on sale on the day to raise more money for the charity.

Run organiser, Rotarian Ian Beattie said: "We're looking forward to being able to add to the £100,000 we've raised over the past two years, money which is being used here in Bristol to fund vital research into prostate cancer.

"We're hearing more and more stories about men below the age of 50 getting the disease and the effect that has on family life, which is why it's vital to raise awareness about this silent killer and persuade men to ask their GPs for a PSA blood test.

"Alternatively, they can come along to the Downs on Sunday and get a free test at the Prospect stand, whether or not they take part in the run. It could save their lives."

For more information about Run for the Future visit www.runforthefuture.org