PEOPLE are being invited to kick start the New Year by signing up to Cancer Research UK's Race for Life in Dorset.   

The charity's much-loved events are returning to both Poole and Bournemouth in 2022.

Every year around 37,300 people are diagnosed with cancer in the south west and 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. 

The Race for Life events in Poole will take place at Baiter Park, Catalina Drive on Saturday, May 14, and is open to people of all ages and abilities.  Adults and children can choose from 3k, 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.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth Seafront will host the 5k and 10k on Sunday, June 12.

Elisa Mitchell, Cancer Research UK's spokesperson in the south west, said: "Everyone can play their part to help beat cancer.

"January is the perfect time for people to commit to getting a little more active. By signing up to Race for Life, there's the chance to raise money for life-saving research. 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.

"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 and take part in the 10K distance. But what is for certain is we're looking forward to welcoming people of all ages and abilities. The events in Poole and Bournemouth will be fun, emotional, colourful, uplifting and unforgettable this year."

Race for Life events across the UK this year will follow current government guidance to protect against COVID-19. Hand sanitiser will be provided at all events.

Elisa said: "We hope that none of our Race for Life events are cancelled in 2022 and will do everything we can to keep people safe. If we do have to cancel any of our events we will let participants know as soon as possible and they will be entitled to a full refund."

Anyone who joins this January can claim 50 per cent off the entry fee as part of the half-price sale by using the code RFL22J50.

Visit raceforlife.org to enter.