A WORCESTER Students' Union representative who ran this year's London marathon has urged other women to take the plunge and enter the Cancer Research UK Race for Life.

Education and welfare vice-president at University College Worcester, Caroline Catmur has pledged to put her best foot forward during the city's 5km event on Sunday, June 16.

The 22-year-old said she and colleagues Sally Metcalfe, a data analyst, and Student Union welfare support manager, Fran Richman, were confident of finishing the sprint, jog or leisurely stroll in good shape.

Fitness

"I'm doing the race to keep up my fitness while raising money for cancer research, which has helped members of my family in the past," she said.

"The marathon was very hard and a long way, but the Race for Life is fun, really worthwhile and the atmosphere is fantastic.

"Five kilometres isn't that far and you can take a break if you need a rest."

The English and drama graduate, who started her role at the union last September, made a plea for women, who had not yet signed up, to put their names forward.

"We want to encourage other women out there teetering on the brink of taking part, to take the plunge," she said.

Last year, nearly 3,000 lined up at Worcester Racecourse to take part in the Tesco-sponsored 5km event.

But due to overwhelming demand, local organisers upped this year's arena to two circuits of the city centre.

On Sunday, June 16, city centre roads and side streets are expected to heave with ladies taking on the Copenhagen Street to Guildhall route, while 250,000 women are expected at 100 national venues over the next two months.

The ultimate aim is to raise 21m for cancers affecting women.

Women of all ages and fitness abilities are invited to take part in the event, sponsored locally by the Evening News, Wyvern FM and Malvern-based running and fitness specialist Run Around.

Anyone wanting more information about the ninth annual event, costing £7.50 to enter, should visit the Race for Life website at www.raceforlife.co.uk or call the hotline on 08705 134 314.

Those requiring training advice should call Run Around in Malvern on 01684 899333.