Running for life during packed weekend

DURING a packed weekend thousands of people were out enjoying the sunshine and many were helping others at the same time.

Almost 3,000 women took part in Cancer Research UK's Race for Life event on Sunday, running to help the charity fight the killer disease.

Women from all over Suffolk took part in the five km race at Chantry Park in Ipswich, many running for their loved ones who have had, or are battling cancer.

Organisers were overwhelmed by how many people were prepared to run for the charity, which has organised race events to help raise vital funds.

Gemma Turpin, from Cancer Research UK, said: “The atmosphere is amazing, fantastic. So many people have come together and without our volunteer helpers who are here today we just could not do this.”

THE Rotary Club for east Ipswich held its annual 25-mile sponsored walk to raise money for charity.

The walk, now in its 30th year, was held yesterday as people raised money for the good causes close to their hearts and the rotary organisation.

The total walk was 25 miles, starting from the Gainsborough Sports Centre in Maryon Road, Ipswich, and continuing along the beautiful countryside along the banks of the River Orwell, and people were free to walk as far as they felt able.

At Otley College there was a showcase of all it has to offer during its “big day out” event at the weekend, attracting more than 2,000 people.

The event on Saturday included horse displays, a mini farmers market run by the food skills department, displays of stylish cars and fire engines and a dog show.

Becky Steward, personal assistant to the principal, said: “There were lots of people here, lots to do and everyone was having fun.

“It was mainly about people having fun, but was also a chance for people to see round the site, and see the curriculum areas we cover, as well as developments on the site during the last year.”

See tomorrow's Evening Star for a Race for Life special.