ENERGETIC employees at a Worcester sports centre are limbering up for Cancer Research UK's Race for Life.

Ladies at St John's Sports Centre will take part in the 5km course to raise funds for research into the prevention, treatment and cures for cancer.

Carol Bennett will run to celebrate a personal triumph after beating breast cancer.

She was shocked when she was diagnosed in 1992.

"I was devastated when they first told me," said the 57-year-old of Canada Way, Lower Wick.

"I'd always been so healthy, never smoked or drank.

"When I was given the all clear I had a different outlook on life.

"Everything seemed so much brighter and I just appreciated life more.

"The charity is really important, they've made a lot of breakthroughs since I has cancer."

Mrs Bennett, who works in the crche, bar and as a cleaner at the city council's centre will also run her second race for a close relative who is recovering from cancer.

Receptionist Beryl Brown will run her second race in memory of a close friend, Jackie Jeynes who died after a battle with cervical cancer.

"We all know someone close to us whose life it's affected," said the 58-year-old of Monarch Drive, St John's.

"When it happens to a close friend it really brings it home.

"It's been three-and-a-half years since she died but we all still really miss her.

"I think it's a much-needed charity as cancer affects so many people."

She has been shaping up at the centre's monthly dance classes in aid of Leukaemia Research.

Receptionist Jennie Bowes will be running for the first time.

The 22-year-old, of Norham Place in Warndon Villages hopes to run all the way.

"It's a very important charity. We'll hopefully get customers coming in to sponsor us," she said.

"It's good to think you can raise money by just running 3.5 miles."

Duty officer Lisa Kordas will run in memory of her aunt, Carol Stephens who died eight years ago.

"I think everybody should try to do something to help," said the 29-year-old of Monarch Drive .

"You never know when it's going to be you or a member of your family.

"I feel I'm doing something for my cousins and uncle.

"I hope by raising money and awareness it will help ensure she didn't die for nothing."

Race for Life is a women's only event.

The Worcester event will be on Sunday, June 13.

It will start at Pitchcroft, Worcester Race Course at 11am.

To enter visit www. raceforlife.org or call 08705 134314.

If you have a story to tell contact Kate Yates on 01905 742258 or e-mail ky@thisisworc ester.co. uk leaving your name and telephone number.