PLACES for Worcester's Race for Life 2005 have been filled in record-breaking time, with more than 2,000 snapped up in just one week.

Five thousand women and girls have signed up for the 5km event to raise funds to help Cancer Research UK find preventions, treatments and cures for cancer.

Race organiser Clare Hartley said: "We are delighted by the enthusiasm of Worcester's women and hope that those lucky enough to have secured places in this year's event will be doing their best to help us reach our fund-raising

target."

With five weeks to go until the Tesco-sponsored event on Sunday June 12, it has never been filled up so quickly before.

Last year was the only other time it has been full, although places were available until the week before the race.

In 2004, 5,000 of women pounded

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across Pitchcroft Racecourse into the city streets to raise £252,000.

This year organisers hope the target is smashed to raise £280,000 towards the national target of £24m.

For those who have missed out this year, it's not too late to get involved.

There are 167 other races across the country between May and July and volunteers are needed to help out on the day.

Worcester City Council is giving people the opportunity to get in shape in the weeks leading up to the big day with free training sessions.

On Wednesdays, track running and walking sessions will be held at Nunnery Wood Sports Complex, Spetchley Road, between 6.30pm and 8pm.

On Thursdays, aerobics sessions will be held at St John's Sports Centre, Swanpool Walk, between 7pm and 8pm.

Just turn up with proof of entry.

To volunteer to help with the race e-mail clare.hartley@cancer.org.uk or call 0115 9857013. For more information visit www.raceforlife.org or call 08705 134314.

In Worcestershire, one in five women does no exercise, according to Cancer Research UK's Race for Life.

Only 25 per cent eat five of more portions of fruit and vegetables every day.

Despite knowing the dangers, one in four smoke.

Excess body weight can increase the likelihood of being diagnosed with cancer.

Diet is linked to about a third of all cancers.