AS Mother’s Day approaches, mums and daughters in Chard and Ilminster are being invited to spend quality time together by entering Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life at Somerset College.

By committing to walk, jog, run and charge their way around the course, mums and daughters will be investing time in creating precious memories together.

One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives. So by getting sponsored to help fund life-saving research, participants will be helping more people survive so they in turn can enjoy more precious moments with their loved ones.

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, is an inspiring women-only series of 5k, 10k, Pretty Muddy and marathon events which raise millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer sooner.

This year, Race for Life 5k and 10k events take place on Sunday, July 19 in Taunton.

Maxine Bateman, Race for Life event manager for the South West, said: “We are urging women in Somerset to give their mums a unique gift this Mother’s Day, by signing up to Race for Life together.

The feel-good factor that comes from being part of an army of women ready to show cancer who’s boss will last long after the event is over.

“Race for Life events are not competitive. They are not about being fit or fast. The reality on the day is that participants of all shapes, sizes and ages generate an electric energy as they unite in their determination to defeat cancer.

“Pledging to take part in Race for Life, alongside thousands of like minded women, is incredibly motivating. The atmosphere at the events is full of emotion. Participants wear signs on their backs declaring their reasons for taking part. Many will be remembering loved ones lost to cancer or celebrating the lives of people dear to them who have survived.”

Cancer survival rates have doubled since the 1970s and Cancer Research UK’s work has been at the heart of that progress. However, “85 people are diagnosed with cancer in the South West every day*” meaning more funds and more supporters are needed to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

Last year, 2,545 women in Taunton pulled on their trainers and put their heart and soul into raising a fantastic £132,935 for life-saving research.

This year, organisers need 2,600 women and girls to stride out to help raise £135,000 to help save more lives.

Maxine added: “Mother’s Day is the special occasion when we acknowledge that universal truth - it’s mums who make the world go round.

“We all know how determined mothers can be when they really make up their minds to do something. And we want to channel that power and energy into a unique force that will help conquer cancer sooner. That’s why we need mums and daughters to enter Race for Life today.”

To enter Race for Life’s 5k, 10k or Pretty Muddy events in the South West, visit raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.