RESIDENTS in Worcestershire are being urged to don their trainers and get adventurous to raise money for county kidney disease sufferers.

"The new year is often a time for life-changing decisions, but yours do not need to be that radical to make a difference," said Dave Carter, Worcestershire fund-raiser for the National Kidney Research Fund.

"I'm looking for adventurous people to accept one of many challenges for 2005 and raise large amounts of sponsorship to help fund the costs of raising awareness and finding a cure for kidney disease."

From running a marathon, walking up Ben Nevis, white water rafting, a parachute jump, sponsored abseil or bike ride, there are many ways to raise cash, said Mr Carter.

"If you do not feel that adventurous why not set yourself your own challenge and ask everyone you know to sponsor your efforts for this very worthy cause," he added.

Mr Carter hopes that companies, pubs, clubs, societies and individuals will also adopt the Fund as their charity of the year.

For more information call 0121 249 0410 or e-mail davecarter@nkrf.org.uk