A CHARITY race to raise money for Cancer Research UK is set to return this year and early birds can take advantage of half-price tickets.

Race for Life will take place at Hudson's Field, Castle Road, on June 9 and it's open to all ages and abilities.

The annual event raises money to help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

Participants can either take part in a 5k or 10k race and anyone signing up in January can claim 50 per cent off their entry fee by using code 'RACE24NY'.

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Elisa Mitchell , Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for Wiltshire, 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 Salisbury 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."

Salisbury Journal: Left to right cancer survivor Crystal Manuel with children Cameron, 15, and Chaia, 13, will Race for Life.Left to right cancer survivor Crystal Manuel with children Cameron, 15, and Chaia, 13, will Race for Life.

Since it began in 1994, more than 10 million 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 90 per 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 Standard Life, part of the Race for Life's sponsor Phoenix Group, 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."