Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life set to return to Houghton Hall in June – with special ‘early bird’ sale now on

People across Norfolk are being invited to kick start the New Year by signing up for Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life at Houghton.

The charity’s much-loved event, which raises funds for life-saving research, is returning to Houghton Hall in June.

The Race for Life event, which will take place on Tuesday, June 25, is open to all ages and abilities. Participants can choose from 3k or 5k events.

Shelley Baxter, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson in the East of England, 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 Norfolk 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.

“January is the perfect time to commit to getting a little more active. Whether people are living with cancer, taking part in honour of or in memory of a loved one with cancer, in it for the medals or just for the fun of fundraising, there is a place for everyone.”

Every year, around 38,400 people are diagnosed with cancer in the East of England.

Money raised at Race for Life enables scientists to find new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer - moving closer to a world where everyone can live longer, better lives free from the fear of cancer.

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with headline sponsor Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group, raises millions of pounds every year across the UK to help beat cancer by funding crucial research.

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% 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 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.”

Elsewhere in Norfolk, a Race for Life event will also take place in Norwich at the Norfolk Showground on Dereham Road, on Saturday, May 11, and Sunday, May 12. Options range from 3k, 5k and 10k events.

There is also a chance to take part in Pretty Muddy, a 5k mud-splattered obstacle course, including a Pretty Muddy Kids option.

Anyone who joins this January can also claim 50% off the entry fee as part of a special ‘early bird’ sale by using the code RACE24NY. To enter, visit raceforlife.org

Reporting by Toma Toricina