Exeter run boosts cancer charity

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THE women who took part in the Race for Life at Westpoint, near Exeter, helped raise an estimated £164,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Women of all ages, shapes and sizes were smiling and enjoying themselves despite the rain as they walked, jogged or ran around the 5km course yesterday.

They all had different stories to tell about people they knew who had cancer, but they were unified in their reason for taking part — to raise funds for the cancer research charity’s life-saving work.

Cancer Research UK’s event manager for the South West, Lisa Carrotte, said: “There were 3,500 entrants, which was brilliant. Last year we had 3,000. There were some great outfits — lots of pink wigs and tutus. It’s always really fun.”

Melissa Meddelton, 30, a hairdresser from St David’s, Exeter, was running in a rabbit costume.

“My best friend’s mum died of breast cancer so I always support cancer charities,” she said.

“There’s a good atmosphere at Race for Life. We thought we would dress up and get into the spirit.”

Caroline Ellis, 35, from Exmouth, raised £1,500 through her first Race for Life.

She said: “My dad has terminal cancer. He had a brain tumour earlier this year and has just started his second round of treatment. Race for Life is very worthwhile. You don’t realise until cancer affects you how important it is.”

Kathleen Hutchings, 51, a factory worker from Tiverton, was taking part alongside her daughters, niece and friends. She said: “I’m doing it to remember my sister, aunt and mother-in-law.

“Race for Life is about helping remember them and raising money to find a cure for everybody else.”

Lisa Somers, 31, a postwoman from Axminster, was participating for the ninth time. She was running mainly in memory of her grandparents.

She said: “When we were growing up, we didn’t know anyone dying from cancer and now there are too many to count.”

Her record time was 21 minutes but she wasn’t attempting to beat it on this occasion — it was just about taking part.

For more information about Cancer Research UK call 08701 602040 or visit http://www.cancerresearchuk.org" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;.