Women in Bristol are being encouraged to help raise money for cancer research by signing up for this year's Race for Life.

The event, organised by Cancer Research UK, will return to Weston-super-Mare in May and the Downs in June.

Women are being encouraged to sign up to walk, jog or run 5k and to recruit their friends, family and colleagues to the cause.

Last year 13,000 took part in the 10th Race for Life in the city and raised an incredible £680,000. Organisers hope 14,000 women will turn out this year so they can raise £690,000.

Many who take part are cancer survivors or are participating in memory or celebration of a loved one whose life has been touched by cancer.

Race for Life event manager for Bristol, Becs Leach, said: "We hope that everyone will accept our invitation to do something amazing by taking part in Race for Life.

"Women of all ages, abilities, shapes and sizes join in.

"They motivate and inspire each other to complete the 5k course.

"Many simply walk round, chatting and having fun, but they all share the wonderful spirit of sisterhood and pride on the day."

She said that, while more people survive cancer than 40 years ago, the disease will still cause the death of one in four people.

Gloria Hunniford, patron of Cancer Research UK's Race for Life, said: "I know that, for many women, Race for Life holds a special place in their hearts and the determination and passion that is felt throughout the events creates an atmosphere that is truly special and inspiring for us all.

"I would urge every woman, no matter what age, fitness level or ability to take part.

"On a personal level, Race for Life is a very moving and emotional experience for me. It's now four year's since I lost my gorgeous daughter Caron to cancer but, even in this short period of time, treatments for the disease have improved so much."

This year's Race for Life will take place on the Downs on Saturday, June 13, and Sunday, June 14. The Weston beach event will be held on Sunday, May 17.

For more information and to sign up for a Bristol Race for Life visit www.raceforlife.org or by calling 0871 641 2282.