WOMEN in south Essex are being urged to sign up to a Race for Life event in Southend or Basildon.

The women-only races organised by Cancer Research UK are being held at Garon Park, in Southend, on May 10 and Gloucester Park, in Basildon, on June 28.

Both are 5k races, but mucky pups may wish to join the Basildon race as it is one of the “Pretty Muddy” challenges which, as the name implies, includes plenty of mud and an obstacle course to boot.

Courtney Culverhouse, one of Cancer Research UK’s regional events managers, said the race was a good way for women to keep fit as well as raising money for life-saving research.

She said: “We’re urging women of all ages, shapes and sizes to take onRace for Life in their region and sign up now.

“Race for Life is non-competitive.

It’s not about being fit or fast.

“Most women are able to walk 5k in an hour while chatting and having fun. Or they can choose to jog, run or even dance around the course if they prefer.

“If you’re looking for an opportunity to get active in 2015 and shake off those January blues, there’s no better time to take on Race for Life.”

Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, raises millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer by funding lifesaving research via 5k, 10k and Pretty Muddy events.

Last year, 1,939 women took part in Race for Life in Southend, raising £127,960, while in Basildon, 7,389 women raised £430,709.

Money raised through the event allows Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists to advance research, which is helping to save the lives of men, women and children across Essex.

Cancer survival rates have doubled since the Seventies in part as a result of Cancer Research UK’s work, but the charity says more funds and supporters are needed.

! To enter Race for Life, visit www.raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.