HUNDREDS of women completed the second Race for Life in Poole to raise money for Cancer Research this weekend.

As the sun shone sporadically, they made their way round the 5km course through Baiter Recreation ground and Poole Park on Sunday morning, raising money for Cancer Research UK.

Many had a story behind their efforts. Jennie Sykes, 38, from Parkstone, was taking part to remember a school friend Helena, who died while pregnant.

Marion Rose, 55, was running with friend Lyn Paull, 53 - both from Bournemouth - in memory of her 14-year-old son Iain Rose, who died from leukaemia in 1988, and brother-in-law who died in October last year.

And 13-year-old Becky Neal from Poole, who won the race in 20 minutes 12 seconds and runs for Poole AC, wanted the challenge as well as to raise money. She said: "I've never done this race before."

Organiser Lorna Clanfield hoped the 1,615 entrants - 615 more than last year - would bring in at least £60,000.

She said: "Poole was one of the fastest filling races in the country.

"We could have had more people running today but we reached capacity.

"We're hoping to raise £60,000 but expect it to be more because of the numbers of people involved and the enthusiasm of the women.

"We will definitely do the race again next year but will be looking at ways to expand the capacity."

She also reminded people not forgot to send their sponsorship money in.

All money raised will go to research into the prevention, treatment and cure of cancer.

Race for Life is also staging an event in Dorchester on June 12 and two in Bournemouth on June 19, one at 11am and one at 2pm.

If you haven't entered a race and would still like to, there are still 600 places available for the Bournemouth 2pm race along Bournemouth seafront on June 19. Log on to www.raceforlife.org, the Race for Life website.

First published: May 9