Hopes are high at the Race For Life

3:17pm Tuesday 13th May 2008

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MORE than four thousand women descended on Birkenhead Park at the weekend for the Cancer Research UK Race For Life.

In total, 4,200 took part in Sunday's event, cheered on by 2,500 spectators.

"The women of Wirral deserve a really big thank you for creating such a great atmosphere"

Helen Wright

It is hoped they will have smashed last year's Wirral fundraising total of £299,000.

It was one of 260 events taking place across the country over the next few weeks which it is hoped will raise more than £50m for research into the disease.

The Globe had been chosen as the Wirral Race For Life's official newspaper for the third year in a row.

Co-ordinator Helen Wright had organised the event for the first time and praised everyone who took part.

She said: "The women of Wirral deserve a really big thank you for creating such a great atmosphere and helping make the event so special.

"I hope everyone who took part in Race for Life at Birkenhead Park really enjoyed themselves - everyone was in a party mood on the day and it looked like everyone had a fantastic time. The event itself may be over, but now it is vital that everyone makes one final effort by returning their sponsorship money as soon as possible to help us cross the fundraising finish line."

Cancer Research UK is funding a range of pioneering studies at the University of Liverpool. They include fundamental research investigating the genes and molecules involved in the development of cancer, which will pave the way for future treatments.

Leading the runners in the number one shirt was Weatherhead High School student Charlotte West, who ran the course in memory of her grandfather.

Joining 15-year-old Charlotte on race day were some of her teachers.

Also taking part was a 22-strong team featuring pupils and staff from Prenton Primary School and staff from the Blue Anchor pub in Hoylake.

Since Race for Life began in 1994, 3.4m women have come together to help raise more thsn £200m to help fund Cancer Research UK's work. This year's event was supported by the following sponsors: Tesco, Reebok and Nivea.

If you took part in Sunday's event and want to do it again, places are still available in Race For Life events in Liverpool on June 28 and 29 and Chester on June 3 and 4.