It's all systems go for the Race For Life as the dash for places closed yesterday.

This year's event - a 5km race around Manningham's Lister Park next Sunday, which participants can run or walk - will be special as Bradford has been selected for the charity's One Big Weekend, where runners and walkers are treated to something a little bit different to other events taking place across the country.

The morning event is full but, while residents have stepped up their efforts to support the afternoon event backstage, hundreds of participants are still needed to take centre stage in the 2.30pm race.

Latest recruits include staff from Yorkshire Eye Hospital in Apperley Bridge.

It will be a family affair for nursing sister Sandra Stebbings, personal assistants, Susan Carter and Fiona Hollings and administration manager Jacqui Collins, who will tackle the event with their respective daughters, Anne-Marie, Jenny, Natasha and Laura.

Also hoping to raise around £1,000 as a team for the charity will be laser co-ordinator Amanda Whitteron and laser administrator Tracey Wilcock-Smith.

Hospital chairman Ian Johnston said: "These girls have worked extremely hard to prepare for this event and it's great to see families pulling together in this way. We wish them the best of luck in the event, I'm sure they will enjoy it."

Eight members of staff from an all-female solicitors firm are competing to raise money for breast cancer.

Staff from Williscroft & Co Solicitors in Peckover Street, Bradford, will take part. Practice manager Michelle Plant said: "I am really proud of all the staff competing, especially as it is such a good cause."

Nicola Hill, of Saltaire, will also join in the fun. She said: "Sadly, at some point in all our lives we will be affected by cancer, whether that be developing a cancer or watching someone we love go through the diagnosis and treatments. I'm taking part in this race because I have been there too many times as a friend, a grand-daughter and as a carer."

Telegraph & Argus reporter Mel Fairhurst is also set to take up the challenge, alongside her sister, Natalie.

Organiser of the Bradford event, Sarah Madden, said: "Last year's event had an unforgettable atmosphere and was a great success, raising £320,000.

"It's such an inspiring day, everyone has a reason for being there. The money raised really does make an invaluable contribution to beating cancer."

For more information, log on to www.raceforlife.org.uk.

e-mail: mel.fairhurst@bradford.newsquest.co.uk

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