A WOMEN'S charity race has become such a runaway success it could be held in Worcester City centre.

Race For Life, organised by the Imperial Cancer Research Fund, has been held on Pitchcroft racecourse for the past three years.

But the record number of runners taking part in this year's event has forced the organisers to rethink its venue for 2002.

The proposal came to light at Worcester City Council's community services policy and review committee.

"This year was the third year, and there were around 2,800 entries," said Wynne Rogers, assistant head of cultural services at Worcester City Council. "We're looking at bringing it into the city centre.

"We've been talking with police about the route for Sunday, June 16 next year."

Race for Life costs the sponsors around £3,000 to run the event on Pitchcroft. To bring it into the city centre would bring the cost up to £5,000.

Many of the women who have entered it have run the race in memory of someone they have lost to cancer, or have even been battling against cancer themselves.

After the meeting, Mr Rogers said the council had had long discussions with the police to improve the route.

"The extra costs will be for police, stewards, cones and barriers," he said. "Pitchcroft can take up to 3,000 people but Imperial Cancer is looking for a route that can take more."

This year, the 5km dash for cash drummed up an estimated £120,000 for vital research into cancers affecting women.

The new route would start at Copenhagen Street and end at the Guildhall.

The council's executive board will make a decision on Monday, November 12.