BY MEGHANN BIGG

THE annual Race for Life took place last week, turning Dorchester pink to support Cancer Research UK.

Despite the rain falling as the race headed to the start line and again as many reached for the finish line, there were no signs of dampened spirits at Kingston Maurward College.

All of them were cheered on by their families and spectators emphasising the real party atmosphere that the charity intends to create during its events. I personally did not run in this year’s race but a lot of young people did, including Gabrielle Smith, 18, who finished the race in 39 minutes.

She said: “It’s all for a good cause and it was so good to see many people taking part and raising funds for such vital research”.

As a lot of young people participate in this event, it has encouraged me and many teenagers to sign up next year, as it is a great day and also a non-competitive event.

This means that taking part is not about being fit or fast, as participants can choose to walk, jog or run around the course. The main reason for the event’s success is that the runners are helping a great charity that unleashes a powerful fighting spirit to stop cancer in its tracks.