CANCER touches everyone's life. With 130,000 women diagnosed with the disease every year, each of the 1,000 women running along The Leas at Folkestone on Sunday July 21 this year is likely to have a reason to be there.

The Cancer Research UK 5km sponsored event is now in its ninth year, but is coming to Folkestone for the first time in the summer.

And eager female runners, joggers and walkers have been signing up to take part this week, some in memory or celebration of a friend or family member who has battled with cancer.

Many have logged on to the www.raceforlife.co.uk where they have been touched by words on the moving and motivational message board from women across the country who will be running in the 100 races organised this year and have told the stories behind their involvement.

The event in Folkestone is supported by the Kentish Express which has a three-girl team entering. The entry fee is £7.50 for adults and £4.50 for girls under 16 and every entrant is asked to try and collect at least £30 in sponsorship money.

More entry forms are being delivered to the Kentish Express offices in Folkestone, Ashford and Tenterden this week or you can register online at www.raceforlife.co.uk or by telephoning 08705 134 314.