The Guernsey event is a 5k run, at L'ancresse Common, starting at 11:00 this morning.

Those taking part will have paid an entry fee and raised sponsorship, with all the money raised going to Cancer Research UK. Girls and boys under 6 can run for free. 

Jessica Edwards, Cancer Research UK’s Guernsey’s Event Manager, said: “Our Race for Life events are fun, colourful, emotional and uplifting. They help people with cancer by raising money for research, including clinical trials which give patients in Guernsey access to the latest treatments."

As one of the biggest fundraising events nationally, Ms Edwards said; “The Race for Life is a powerful, inspirational movement which unites participants in Guernsey with people across the South and the whole of the UK.

“Taking part in our Race for Life events enables like-minded people to get together and remember loved ones lost to cancer or celebrate the lives of those who have survived. At the same time, they are helping to make a difference to people with cancer, right now. 

She added: “Our Race for Life events have been women-only since they started, over 25 years ago. But we now feel the time is right to open them up so that everyone - women, men and children – has the chance to participate together. 

“One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer, at some point during their lifetime. Sadly, this means nearly everyone is touched by the disease, either directly or through a loved one or friend. 

“To make a significant difference in the fight against cancer we need to harness as much energy and commitment as possible – so what better way than involving everyone in the community in our events.”