HUNDREDS of women and girls gathered in Falmouth on Sunday to take part in Cancer Research UK's Race for Life with many of the runners and joggers having personal tales of loss spurring them on.

One of those was young Ria Watson who took part in her Dash for Sash in memory of her elder sister, Sasha Watson, who lost her two year battle against cancer in February aged just 19. With the support of her parents, Michelle Bray and Chris Watson; sister, Keita and her many friends, Ria was determined to run in Sasha's name and raise cash.

A JustGiving page was set up with Ria setting herself the modest target of raising £60. By Monday, she had exceeded that by 1,081 per cent as 50 donations brought in £649.

Organisers of the 5K run are now asking that all competitors collect and send in their sponsorship as soon as possible. Ruth Chamings, Race for Life event manager for Falmouth, said: “I want to say a heartfelt ‘thanks’ to everyone who took part in Race for Life, and their supporters, as well as our heroic volunteers.

“It was a fantastic day, full of emotion, courage, tears and laughter as over 1000 women joined forces to show cancer who’s boss. Now I’m asking all the women who took part - and all the friends, family and colleagues who pledged to sponsor them - to transform their passion into progress by returning the money they’ve raised as soon as possible.

“Cancer Research UK doesn’t receive any Government funding for its ground-breaking work. So every single individual contribution matters. It enables our researchers to help more men, women and children in Cornwall survive this devastating disease.

"Many people don’t realise that their entry fee only covers the cost of the event. It’s the sponsorship money that really makes a difference. So, whatever the amount, we’re asking everyone to make every effort to return their sponsorship money as soon as possible. It can be paid in online, by phone or by cheque.”

For information on returning sponsorship money, or to make a donation, visit www.raceforlife.org.