NEARLY 4,000 women are getting ready to Race for Life in Ipswich this year.Cancer Research UK will this year hold two races in the town - the first in Chantry Park on June 18 and the second at the Suffolk Showground on July 19.

NEARLY 4,000 women are getting ready to Race for Life in Ipswich this year.

Cancer Research UK will this year hold two races in the town - the first in Chantry Park on June 18 and the second at the Suffolk Showground on July 19.

The Chantry Park race is already full but a few places are still available at the Suffolk Showground event.

It is the sixth year the event has been held in Ipswich and women in the area have so far raised £400,000.

Heidi Connell, race organiser, said: “Race for Life provides a unique motivation to start taking regular exercise and maintain a healthy body weight, while at the same time raising vital funds to support research into cancer.”

As the first Ipswich race draws closer, Race for Life organisers are appealing for volunteers to come forward to help staff the race and support the hundreds of female runners.

Cancer Research UK is looking for both men and women to offer their assistance by marshalling events and cheering people on.

Mrs Connell added: “From setting up marquees, helping people with on the day inquiries, to giving out medals and marshalling the course, there's a huge variety of important jobs we always appreciate help with.

“Volunteering is a great way to feel a part of the event and to make it easier for people to understand how they can lend their support.”

There are 230 Race for Life events taking place across the country this summer with 750,000 women expected to take part.

They can walk, jog or run the 5km race and are asked to collect sponsorship for vital research into cancer.

It is hoped that nationwide the races will raise £46 million for Cancer Research UK with tens of thousands of pounds expected to be raised in Ipswich.

To take part, or for information on fundraising, visit the Race for Life website: www.raceforlife.org.

Are you running in memory of a friend or member of your family? Perhaps you have battled cancer yourself. We want to hear your stories. Contact Kate Boxell on 01473 324800 or e-mail kate.boxell@eveningstar.co.uk.