ALMOST 100 women have already signed up for this year's Race for Life in Dorchester.

Up to 2,000 women are expected to take part in the annual 5km race around Dorchester on June 11 which raises money for Cancer Research.

The women-only race, which involves 75,000 runners nationwide, is celebrating its 13th birthday and this will be the fourth time Dorchester has hosted its own event.

A Race for Life spokesman said Dorchester runners had raised almost £283,000 for the charity Cancer Research UK.

Race organiser Lorna Glanfield said: "Every single woman who takes part in Race for Life and raises money is making an invaluable contribution towards the fight against cancer.

"Last year's event had an unforgettable atmosphere and was incredibly inspiring.

"We were delighted by the Dorchester success and proud that the town's women smashed our fundraising target. We hope that everyone will get behind the event again this year."

The national event attracts a host of celebrity supporters including Gloria Hunniford and Paula Radcliffe.

Andrew Adair, head of Race for Life, said: "Race for Life is about women pulling together to raise vital funds to cure cancer faster, and it is also about encouraging women to get out and exercise to reduce their own risk of contracting cancer."

Although the race is almost five months away, Mrs Glanfield is urging residents to sign up soon because she said places filled up quickly.

To register, visit www.raceforlife.org or call 08705 134314.