WITH just over a fortnight to go before this year's Race for Life, entrants are pulling on their trainers and getting fit in time for the big event on Sunday, May 23.

Hundreds of women have signed up to take part in the Cancer Research UK event, supported by the Citizen, which is expected to raise thousands of pounds for the good cause.

Even sporty Citizen reporter Emma Mayoh (pictured) has pledged to join the event at Preston Sports Arena, Tom Benson Way, Preston, sponsored by her colleagues, family and friends.

Emma, 24, said: "Although for some people it may seem like a short distance, it will be a challenge for me because I've never done anything like this before.

"I'm really looking forward to it and raising lots of money for such a worthy cause to help women who have been diagnosed with cancer and their families."

This year marks the 11th anniversary of Race for Life, sponsored by Tesco, and the ninth event of its kind in Preston.

Since starting in 1994 more than £35million has been raised for research into cancers that affect women to fund more than 3,000 scientists, doctors and nurses across the UK.

"More than 100,000 people are now successfully treated every year largely thanks to the hard work of our research scientists and doctors," said Dr Lesley Walker, director of science information at Cancer Research UK.

If you are sponsoring a friend or family member to take part in Race for Life, don't forget to sign the gift aid box on the sponsor form, allowing the charity to raise extra money for the good cause.

If you would like to sponsor Emma call her on 01772 255532.