THE sea of faces pictured on page 11 of today's Evening News sums up the attitude of Worcestershire people when asked to support a cause with which few could argue and which strikes the right chord.

Race for Life is a charity event like so many others, but one which has something different. It is only women who take part. It is a chance to show that they care enough to put the effort into raising cash to support cancer research charities.

One can only applaud the efforts of these women, young and old, active and infirm, who took part. Some were suffering from cancer, some had beaten cancer, some had lost family members or close friends to cancer.

They all had a common bond and their enthusiasm sums up the attitude to an event that tugs at the heart-strings of the community.

In previous years, there have been up to 2,000 participants and the first race, staged in 1999, raised more than £25,000 for cancer charities from the 650 entrants. This year more than 4,000 took part and their aim is a staggering £200,000.

But as well as raising this fabulous amount for the charity, the Worcester women who took part in the race will have done something equally important...Raising the profile of cancer research and the need to constantly fuel important medical exploration work.

In the battle against this disease the equation is a simple one - Increased awareness equals earlier diagnosis, equals a better chance of survival.

Everyone who took part, or supported those that ran in the Race for Life, should be proud of their efforts.