THREE women from the Arden Forest Veterinary Group in Alcester are gearing up to help in the fight against a devastating illness.

Race for Life is a three-mile race, run only by women and girls, and raises money for research into cancer in women.

Sue Goode, receptionist at the Cross Road's surgery has now encouraged two of the vets who work with her, Katy Wragg and Linda Kilminster, to take part.

The two women have been practising for the last six months with Katy's Jack Russell, Harry Sprocket, in tow.

Mrs Goode said a number of reasons had prompted to her to take part in the race.

She said: "I was inspired to do this race last year by a friend who was going through the agony of breast cancer but who is now fit and well. And my mother died of breast cancer."

The Race for Life will take place on Sunday at Stratford Racecourse.

And Mrs Goode believes the amount of sponsorship looks like being a substantial amount again this year.

She said: "The staff at Arden Forest have been very supportive to us, putting their hands in their pockets for a second time."