RACE for Life organisers are celebrating after filling both events along Bournemouth seafront.

On June 19, around 8,000 women will be running or walking the 5K course at 11am and again at 2pm to raise cash for Cancer Research.

Both events could raise more than half a million pounds.

This summer's campaign is sponsored by Tesco and supported locally by JP Morgan.

Runners are being encouraged to contribute towards a fundraising target of £23 million for Cancer Research UK's continuing work to cure cancer faster.

Lorna Glanfield, national events executive for Cancer Research UK, said: "What an amazing response we've had in Bourne-mouth this year. We've managed to double the race size since last year and still fill a month early. We're really hoping that all the women taking part are now working hard at raising sponsorship. Our new income target for the whole day in Bournemouth is £450,000. However, if every woman raised £100 then the total would be £800,000."

The Poole Park race earlier this month was deemed a huge success with 1,600 women pounding their way around Poole Park.

Race for Life organisers also sold 930 pink wristbands on the day and raised just under £1,000. These wristbands will also be on sale at the Bournemouth event on June 19 for a minimum suggested donation of £1.

First published: May 26