WOMEN are being urged to make the most of the lighter evenings by training for this year's Race for Life.

There are still places left at events in both Basildon and Southend, which raise vital cash for Cancer Research UK.

Mums, daughters, sisters and friends are invited to unite in their fight against the disease in honour of lost loved ones.

The 5k challenge will be at Garon Park, in Southend, on Sunday, May 10 while on Saturday, June 27, a team of Newsquest Essex reporters – including Basildon Echo chief reporter Chloe Chapman and Basildon crime reporter Carri-Ann Taylor – will take on the Pretty Muddy obstacle course at Gloucester Park, Basildon.

The following day, the traditional Race for Life 5k run will take place at the same site.

Organiser Gill Burgess said: “Race for Life events are not competitive.

They are not about being fit or fast. It’s about an army of women crossing the finish line together in the fight against cancer.

Whether you’re a running pro or novice, every step you take around the course will help bring us one step closer to the day when all cancers are cured.

“The atmosphere is incredibly supportive and pledging to take part, alongside thousands of likeminded women, is a great motivation.

With fire in their bellies and trainers at the ready, we know that Essex ladies are up for the challenge.”

Last year, 7,389 women took part in the Basildon Race for Life events alone, raising £430,709.

More than one in two people in Britain will be diagnosed with cancer at some stage in their lives, but survival rates have doubled since the early Seventies.

Money raised through Race for Life allows Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists to help save even more lives, with the ultimate goal of finding a cure.

Gill added: “With the arrival of lighter evenings, there’s no better time to enjoy the great outdoors, get a bit fitter and limber up for Race for Life. Whether you choose to walk, jog or charge around the course, you’ll be joining an army of women united in the battle against cancer.

“Every day, 83 people are diagnosed with cancer in the East of England “Our aim is that one day everyone will beat this devastating disease.

The more research we can fund, the sooner that day will come – so ladies, it’s time to pull on your leggings, join the pink army and get your blood pumping at Race for Life.”

To enter, visit raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.

To sponsor the Newsquest team, visit justgiving.com/letsgetprettymuddy