A GROUP of journalists at the Echo are doing their bit to help kick cancer.

Seven women from the Dorset Echo run the 5k challenge to support Cancer Research UK in this year’s Race for Life Dorchester.

They have raised more than £125 for the cause and are hoping to beat their target of £200.

Group leader and reporter Emma Walker said she was inspired to take part after her aunt won her battle against breast cancer.

She said: “It’s a fantastic cause and raising money to help out people is a great thing to do.

“My auntie Jan Walker had breast cancer and came out the other side. She was really brave and it inspired me to get involved.

She added: “I started running about a month ago and I’ve done about three kilometres in one run so far.”

Reporter Catherine Bolado will be taking on the challenge for the second time this year.

She said: “It’s an excellent cause – everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer.

“I want to do my bit to help out and help beat this terrible condition.”

“This will be my second time doing Race for Life and I really enjoyed it last time.

“There’s an amazing atmosphere and it makes me feel so positive that we can raise money to help fund research so that one day there will be a cure for cancer.

Jo Davis and Rachel Stretton will also be taking part with former colleague Laura Kitching, while Rachael Burnett will report from the race features editor Ruth Hayes runs for the third time along with her daughter Fran.

She said: “A close friend of mine died of cancer last year and I’ll be running in her memory.

“It’s always a really fun day and everyone has a lot of fun.

“I don’t normally like wearing pink but I’ll be wearing it on the day to support the cause.”

To sponsor the Dorset Echo Team visit www.raceforlifesponsorme.org/dorset-echo-team