Women at the start of last year's raceTHOUSANDS of women have already signed up to take part in this year's Race for Life.

The women-only event is raising money for Cancer Research UK.

This year is the sixth time the race has come to Swindon's Lydiard Park and runners in the town have been set a fundraising target of £255,000.

But Cancer Research UK is asking women in Swindon to go the extra mile to beat this figure if every entrant in the race raised and sent in £100 the final amount could be as high as £385,000.

Last year the race raised £180,000, which contributed to the massive national total of £20 million.

And for those who have already signed, it's not too early to start raising money. As well as signing up sponsors, other suggested ideas include running a sweepstake on finishing times or set up fundraising websites.

Race for Life director Jo Symington said: "While we are hugely proud of the achievement in 2004, there are still too many women taking part in Race for Life and not raising any money.

"The more that is raised by each and every woman, the more we can do to cure cancer faster."

The money raised plays a vital role in helping to make advances in preventing, treating and curing cancer. The race entry fee covers administration costs but all sponsorship money goes straight to Cancer Research UK's life-saving work.

And by wearing a pink wristband on the day people have another way of raising even more cash. The bands, costing £1, will be available on the race day.

The charity is hoping that seeing the bands on the arms of women will encourage others to enter the race and help reach this year's £24 million fundraising target.

Karina Morgan, Swindon and Marlborough race organiser, said: "We hope that the 7,000 women who are expected to take part in Race for Life Swindon and Marlborough this year will be keen to sport the pink wristbands, which both look great and raise money to help cure cancer fast.

"Women in this area are always really enthusiastic about Race for Life. These wristbands give women another opportunity to support the charity."

The Swindon race will take place at Lydiard Park on June 4 and June 5 with a Marlborough race, at Marlborough College, on May 8.

Dr Lesley Walker, director of cancer information at Cancer Research UK said: "This year's Race for Life target of £24 million will play a hugely important role in funding our world class research into cancer, and ultimately in saving lives."

For more information call the hotline on 08705 134314 or log on to www.raceforlife.org