A CANCER survivor was among the 2,350 people who came together in Reading this weekend to take part in the annual Race For Life.
The fundraiser for Cancer Research UK saw participants take part in courses of 3km, 5km, and 10km in Prospect Park. And the ultra-keen could take part in a Pretty Muddy event.
Among them was Barbara Hoare, who was accompanied by her grandson who dressed as a dinosaur.
“I’ve done Race for Life for friends, family and even myself after beating breast cancer and this year we’ve collected just over £2,000,” she said.
It is just part of the £170,000 raised so far, with more coming in, and is the 30th year it has been held.
The annual event held on Sunday helps Cancer Research UK fund research into preventing, diagnosing and treating cancer - helping to save more lives. This is the 30th year of Race for Life and participants received an exclusive medal to mark the milestone.
Organisers thank people for taking part, but urged them to get their sponsorship money returned as soon as possible.
Elisa Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson in Reading, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who faced all weathers this weekend to take part in Race for Life Reading.
“Life-saving research is being funded right now thanks to our supporters who fundraise. They created an incredible atmosphere at Race for Life Reading with smiles, emotion, courage, tears and laughter as people celebrated the lives of those dear to them who have survived cancer and remembered loved ones lost to the disease.
“Now we’re asking everyone who took part to return the money they’ve raised as soon as possible. Funds raised – whether it’s £10 or £100 – will help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, helping save more lives.”
Andy Curran is the chief executive of Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group which sponsors the event.
He said: “We are extremely proud to have been chosen as the headline sponsor of Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life. This sponsorship will help encourage participation and raise funds for life-saving research to help beat cancer.”
For more details, or to sign up for next year’s event, log on to: raceforlife.org
