A CALL has gone out for Hampshire dieters to pile on the pounds for local people living with cancer.

Macmillan Cancer Relief wants local people trying to lose weight in the new year to help the Daily Echo backed South Hampshire Appeal.

Dieters looking for inspiration as they shed the extra Christmas pounds can sign up for a sponsored fitness challenge to boost the £1m appeal.

Every pound raised will help fund a cancer support and information centre under construction at Southampton General Hospital.

Connie McConachie, Macmillan's local fundraising manager, said: "Some people are getting fit in style this year, by taking part in one of Macmillan's hiking or biking challenges to beautiful and exotic places

such as Peru and South Africa.

"If you prefer something a little closer to home, why not get active and do a sponsored slim?"

The charity needs to raise £1m to pay for the state-of-the-art centre which will offer emotional support and practical help and information to anyone affected by cancer.

Facilities will include Internet access, counselling, complementary therapies and stylish wigs.

For sponsorship forms, contact Vanessa Eden on 023 8023 6367.