UNITED goalkeeper Shay Given is urging Magpies fans to get behind his number one charity in this year's Great North Run.

Shay is patron of Macmillan Cancer Relief, and is urging any runners who are without a sponsor to back the cause.

"We all know someone who has been touched by cancer. I personally lost my mother to cancer and I would ask anyone who has not as yet chosen a worthy charity to support Team Macmillan."

The race takes place on Sunday September 21, the day after the home game with Bolton Wanderers.

To support Macmillan cancer, contact Appeal co-ordinator Janet Richardson on 0191 226 1544, or email jrichardson@macmillan.org.uk