MORE than 3,500 women are preparing for this year’s Race for Life event in Worcester, which raises money for Cancer Research UK.

Tomorrow, 3,827 women from across the county will gather at Worcester Racecourse to take part in the 5km race.

Despite a last-minute flurry of entries before Thursday’s deadline, the number of entrants is down on last year, when 4,696 runners took part.

Organisers had hoped 7,000 women would take part in Worcester this year to help raise £377,213 for Cancer Research UK. Last year’s race raised £219,246.

Event manager Kelly Rumble said: “A massive thank you to all the ladies who have registered.

“We are counting on you to send in your sponsorship money to help reach our target in Worcester of £377,213 – after all, raising money to help Cancer Research UK help more people survive cancer is what Race for Life is about.

“If you haven’t entered and want to help you can join the volunteer team on the day by visiting the Cancer Research UK marquee at the start line.”

Two women who will be taking part in this year’s event are identical twins Su Webb and Jo Webber, along with Mrs Webb’s daughter Chloe, aged 13.

The sisters had their lives turned upside down after cancer struck their family three times in one year.

Their aunt Margaret Davis died from oesophageal cancer in December 2006, their mother Judy Davies was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2007 and Mrs Webber’s husband Christopher was diagnosed with blood cell cancer in July 2007.

Four years later, their mother has been given the all clear and Mr Webber is doing well after treatment.

Mrs Webb, aged 43, from Ledbury, said: “We want to urge anyone who feels anything is wrong to get things checked out at the doctors as soon as possible, as things can be done if you catch things early. We’re so relieved and mum has been so positive. Her experience just shows how important it is to have regular checks.”

Mrs Webber, also of Ledbury, said: “We were always talking about doing Race for Life and this year I just said, ‘We must do it’. I’m really pleased my twin sister and niece are doing it with me.”

l See Monday’s Worcester News for a report and photos.