A POPULAR women-only fundraiser was held in Suffolk yesterday and saw runners of all abilities unite to raise more than �200,000.

Dave Gooderham

A POPULAR women-only fundraiser was held in Suffolk yesterday and saw runners of all abilities unite to raise more than �200,000.

Organisers of the Race for Life event in Bury St Edmunds have praised the estimated 4,000 runners who took part in the event in Nowton Park.

Now in its ninth year, it raises money for Cancer Research UK and gives runners a chance to remember loved ones who have died from the killer disease.

Sylvia Slater, who travelled to Bury from her home in Isleham, was running in memory of her husband, Paul, who died last year.

She was joined by her daughter, Samantha, and Paul's granddaughter, Amber, who at just under two years old was one of the youngest entrants in the large field.

Mrs Slater said: “It is the first time I have taken part in the event but I wanted to do something in memory of my husband. The atmosphere is brilliant and it is a nice way to raise money and awareness for Cancer Research.”

While some were experiencing the special atmosphere for the first time, Nicola Castell was doing it for the sixth occasion.

The owner of Just Hair, which has salons in Bury and Great Barton, took part with seven members of her staff and said the charity was particular important to the company.

She explained: “It is just a superb event. I find it quite emotional and moving as we have all experienced family members and friends who have had cancer,

“But it is also very uplifting and a great way to raise money. Cancer Research has always been the salon's chosen charity and I would like to thank our clients who are all behind us.”

Race organiser Gemma Turpin said she was delighted with the turnout with 2,000 women taking part in the morning race and a similar number in the afternoon event.

She said: “The day has been absolutely fantastic and the weather has been on our side. With 4,000 women taking part, I am confident we can smash our target of �205,000. I think the race is so special because of the togetherness. Anyone can take part - whether you are five or 75.”

A total of 240 Race for Life events are taking place around the country this year raising an estimated �60million for the charity.