A popular charity event is returning to Kent this summer, with residents invited to don something pink and get walking, running or even skipping across the finish line.

Cancer Research UK's Race for Life is back again at Mote Park in Maidstone.

In 2020, all 400 Race for Life races were cancelled due to restrictions on mass gatherings during the pandemic.

People were encouraged to take part in the Race for Life at home instead - in their garden or local park.

Last year numerous socially-distanced events were able to take place in Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells, Folkestone, Herne Bay and Margate.

Participants of all ages and abilities are being invited to sign up for the Maidstone race, which will take place in Mote Park on July 2 and 3.

One in two people in the UK born after 1960 will get cancer in their lifetime.

Money raised at Race for Life enables scientists to find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer - helping to save more lives.

Women, men and children can choose from 5k and 10k events.

There is also a chance to take part in Pretty Muddy - a mud-splattered obstacle course - and there’s a Pretty Muddy Kids option too.

Rhianna Haywood, Race for Life spokeswoman for Maidstone, said: “Everyone can play their part to help beat cancer.

“Spring is an ideal time to commit to getting a little more active. Sadly, cancer affects all of us in some way.

"Whether people are living with cancer, taking part in honour of or in memory of a loved one with cancer, or signing up to protect their own children’s future, everyone has a reason to Race for Life.

"So we’re asking people across the region: 'Who will you Race for?'

“Our Race for Life events are open to all. For some people, the Race for Life is literally a walk in the park. Slow and steady still wins.

"For others, it’s a jog. Others may opt to push themselves harder, taking up the challenge of the 10k distance and even pushing for a new personal best time.

“But what is for certain is we’re looking forward to welcoming people of all ages and abilities.

"Race for Life Maidstone will be fun, emotional, colourful, uplifting and an unforgettable event this year.”

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, raises funds for world-class research to help beat 200 types of cancer - including bowel cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, testicular cancer, brain cancer, children’s cancers and leukaemia.

Oonagh Turnbull, head of health campaigns at Tesco, said: “This will be our 21st year in partnership with Cancer Research UK and Race for Life and we hope this year can be the biggest yet.”

Entry is from £10-£19.99 depending on the event. To sign up for the event, click here.