WOMEN, looking to go the extra mile to raise cash for a cancer charity, are being urged to sign up for the Race for Life.

A series of the five kilometre women-only races are taking place across the county, including Southend, Basildon, Chelmsford and Colchester.

The event raises cash for Cancer Research UK. The first of the races to take place in Essex is the event at Southend’s Garon Park on Sunday May 12.

But the event is already full with the maximum amount of runners signed up to compete, so those still looking to join a Race for Life are being urged to sign up for events elsewhere in the county.

Gill Burgess, event Manager for the Southend Race for Life, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that so many women have entered Race for Life in Southend.

“Together, they will help us create a fantastic atmosphere on the day and really show cancer who’s boss.”

“We want to rally as many women and girls to the cause as possible. There are several events in Essex so although Race for Life in Southend is full, you can still get together with your friends and family at a venue nearby.”

Women of all shapes and sizes, ages and abilities can take part in the Race for Life and people can run or walk.

Gill added: “Race for Life is non-competitive.

“So there’s no need to worry about being fit or fast. It doesn’t matter if you walk, jog or even dance your way around the course.

“There are over 200 cancers and we won’t give up until we find cures for them all. It’s fighting talk, and we mean every word we say.”

Preparations are gearing up for the Basildon Race for Life, which will be the biggest event in the county.

Last year, 5,508 women took part in Race for Life in Basildon and raised a total of £356,211.

This year, organisers are looking for 5,300 participants, with the aim of raising at least £335,000.

Two races are being run in Gloucester Park, Basildon on Sunday, June 23, at 11.00am and 2.30pm .To enter, call 0845 6006050, or go to www.raceforlife.org.