MASSIVE support for Evesham's Race for Life has forced organisers to close entries early.

Fund-raisers admitted being taken by surprise by the high take-up of women entrants for the event on Sunday, June 19.

An estimated 1,700 women will run or walk the five kilometre course at Crown Meadow - 200 more than last year.

"Organisers are hoping the race will raise £85,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Race for Life's Clare Hartley said: "We are surprised that we've had to close the race so soon, especially because of the increased capacity this year.

"There has been a huge interest throughout the region and it's just a shame we have to turn people away now.

"But it's really important that people who are taking part do some fund-raising to help us reach our target.

"More and more people know someone who has been affected by cancer so many more people want to get involved. It's such a good day out for everyone and a great way to raise money for much-needed projects."

This is the third year Evesham will host a Race for Life event, with each year proving more popular and successful than the last. Entrants for last year's race managed to collect an impressive £75,000.

The money will go towards funding the vital work of Cancer Research UK's doctors, nurses and scientists.

Since the first Race for Life events in 1994 more than £70m has been raised to support important advances in cancer treatments.