Popular Race For Life event returning to Colchester next month - all we know

AN annual race raising vital funds for a cancer charity is set to make its return to Colchester.

Cancer Research's annual Race for Life, open to people of all ages and abilities, will once again be taking place in Lower Castle Park.

Since launching back in 1994, about ten million people have taken part in the nationwide events, raising more than £920 million in the process.

This run will take participants on a 5k course around Castle Park's winding paths and steep slopes.

Starting at 11am, the race encourages people to take part at their own pace.

Event manager Shannon Taylor said: "Colchester Race For Life is set to be a great event.

"This year we will just be conducting a 5k race due to some park repairs the 3k is unable to take place however we hope to bring this back for next year.

"The route takes in all of the greenery and history of Castle Park including passing the Castle itself.

"We will have a wonderful choir out of the course as well as some fantastic activities on our event site. We hope to see you there."

Every year around 36,600 people are diagnosed with cancer in the East of England, with national statistics predicting one in two people will get cancer in their lifetime.

Cancer Research UK funds scientists, doctors and nurses to help beat cancer sooner and provides cancer information to the public

Ms Taylor said: "Race For Life is a fantastic event that allows our participants to walk, jog or run a 5k route around Colchester’s wonderful Castle Park, all while raising important funds for Cancer Research UK.

"The money our participants raise goes directly towards helping us to beat cancer sooner.

"So whether you want to run with friends or walk with your family, Race For Life is an event everyone can take part in because Life is worth racing for."

The Race For Life event will cost £15.99 for runners aged 16 and over and £11 for children.

Children under the age of six will run for free.

The Race For Life returns to Colchester on July 7.