PEOPLE across Somerset are invited to kickstart 2024 by signing-up for Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life.

The charity’s popular events, which raise funds for life-saving research, returns to Weston seafront on June 12 and Bridgwater and Taunton College, in Taunton, on July 7.

It's open to all ages and abilities and participants can choose between 3k or 5k distances.

Anyone who joins at raceforlife.org in January can claim 50per cent off the entry fee with the early bird code RACE24NY.

Ali Birkett, Cancer Research UK’s South West spokesperson, said: “No matter how cancer affects us, life is worth racing for.

“Sadly nearly one in two of us will get cancer in our lifetime, but Race for Life has the power not only to transform lives, but to save them.

"We’re proud that Race for Life has already helped double survival rates in the UK.

“We’d love for as many people as possible across the county and beyond to join us at Race for Life.

"There is a race for everyone and we mean everyone. Walk, jog, run or take on the course however it suits best.

"It’s a chance to feel the power of moving together with fellow Race for Lifers and have fun with it.

“January is the perfect time to commit to getting a little more active. Whether people are living with cancer, taking part in honour of or in memory of a loved one with cancer, in it for the medals or just for the fun of fundraising, there is a place for everyone.”

Since 1994, more than 10million people have taken part in Race for Life, funding 30 years of hope and progress.

Money raised has helped develop radiotherapy, which benefits more than 130,000 people with cancer in the UK every year.

Cancer Research UK-funded scientists led the development of the Human Papillomavirus Virus vaccine, which is expected to prevent almost 90per cent of cervical cancers in the UK.

The charity also funded many large clinical trials looking at the effectiveness of the drug tamoxifen and the research shaped the way the drug is used to treat breast cancer today.

Andy Curran, chief executive of headline sponsor Standard Life, said: “We are incredibly proud to continue as headline sponsor for Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, with the opportunity to encourage participation across the country.

“By working to raise funds for life-saving research, we can move towards a future where people live longer and healthier lives, free from the fear of cancer.”