VALE women taking part in Evesham's Race for Life have surpassed themselves. Organisers set a target figure of 1,200, but nearly 1,500 have signed up and entries have now closed.

The Cancer Research UK event, which takes place on Sunday, June 20 has far exceeded the organisers expectations, which means Crown Meadow will be packed to capacity.

Race for Life organiser Elyse Kirkham said: "The response to Evesham's Race for Life has blown all our expectations well out of the water. The number of entrants we have is about as many people as we can fit in and I expect it will be a little bit crazy on the day!

"Evesham is a very local event and most of the people taking part live nearby so they talk about it and want to get involved. Race for Life came to the town only last year and to have reached full capacity in two years is pretty spectacular. The success is down to the local support we have had."

Last year nearly 900 women took part in the race in Evesham raising about £50,000.

This year the fundraising target for the Evesham event, backed by the Evesham Journal, was initially set at £70,000 but organisers now estimate as much as £85,000 could be raised thanks to increased numbers taking part. All the money raised will fund the vital work carried out by Cancer Research UK's team of doctors, nurses and scientists.

No more entries can be accepted for the Evesham Race for Life but other races are being held around the country. To find the nearest event visit www.raceforlife.org.