ENTRIES are now open for a race which unites women across the country in the fight against cancer.

Organisers of the Cancer Research UK Race for Life are calling on women and girls of all ages, shapes and sizes, to take part in this year's five kilometre charity race.

The event at Epsom Downs Racecourse, which is being held on June 24 at 11am, raised £300,000 last year.

Elizabeth Frisby, Cancer Research UK's events manager, said: "It's all of us versus cancer and we need you to join the fight as soon as possible."

Last year over 4,000 women took part in the Surrey race, raising vital cash for the charity which drives millions of pounds every year into fighting 200 types of cancer in men, women and children.

Ms Frisby said: "We are very grateful to everyone who took part in Race for Life in Epsom last year and in the past.

"Thanks to them, Cancer Research UK has been able to fund much-needed research. But the battle against cancer never stops and for this reason we need them to return to the fight in 2012 and bring new recruits with them."

Organisers want to encourage as many walkers, joggers and runners as possible, as Ms Frisby added: "We know many women want to take part in Race for Life but are worried they won't be able to complete the course.

"We want to reassure them that Race for Life is not about being fast or fit. Instead, it's a celebration of sisterhood and hope."

Cancer affects around 41,000 people in the South East every year, and in the hour it might take women to walk the race distance, around five people in the area will have been diagnosed.