A WORCESTER mum will be taking part in her sixteenth Race for Life event this year in memory of her dad who died of cancer.

Sarah Stansfield, a self-employed chartered accountant, will join Cancer Research UK’s 10k Race for Life at Worcester Racecourse on Sunday, July 17.

Mrs Stansfield will be taking part in memory of her dad Michael Hookham who died in January after a seven year battle with prostate cancer.

This will be Sarah’s 16th medal after completing her first ever Race for Life in 2004 as a running novice.

“I did Race for Life to get fit initially but I found it very moving and since then a number of friends and family have been affected by cancer.

“Dad was very stoical but the side effects of his cancer removed a lot of his dignity.

"I will be taking part in his memory this year because research is the key to finding kinder and more effective treatments.”

The 56-year-old mum of three will be joined by her sister Elizabeth Begley, a GP who lives in London.

The pair are now calling on others to join them and help raise vital funds for research.

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life is an inspiring women-only series of 5k, 10k and Pretty Muddy events which raise millions of pounds every year to help beat 200 different types of cancer.

“The great thing about Race for Life is that anyone can do it.

“It’s an excellent way to get fit and it really doesn’t matter what level you are because lots of people walk.”

Kelly Rumble, event manager for Worcester Race for Life, said the money raised would enable Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists to advance their life-saving research.

“One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some stage in their lives.

“Thanks to advances in research more people are surviving than ever before, but there’s still more work to be done. "That’s why we’re rallying women across Worcestershire to join us at the starting line and help bring us one step closer to the day when all cancers are cured.”

To find out more or sign up now visit raceforelife.org.