THE MEDICAL expert leading cancer research in Southampton has added his backing to the thousands of woman taking part in this year's Race for Life.

As well as raising funds for further research, the event on July 16 on Southampton Common is important in many other ways, said Peter Johnson, pictured Professor of Medical Oncology and the Director of the Cancer Sciences Division at Southampton General Hospital.

"Obviously the fundraising aspect is very important but Race for Life also helps to raise awareness of cancer.

"It lets people know that there is an awful lot that can be done to help people with cancer and it makes people more aware that if they think something is wrong they should visit their doctor.

"It makes people less frightened of the illness and it gives people who have had cancer the chance to get back at it.

"It allows them the chance to feel they are doing their bit fighting cancer," he said.

On Sunday July 16, 10,000 women will tackle the 5km course around Southampton Common with the aim of raising up to £600,000 for further research. It costs £7m a year to run the laboratories at Southampton General Hospital and Cancer Research UK give £2m towards those costs.

If you are taking part in this year's Race for Life and would like to share your story call Kate Thompson on 023 8042 4761 or e-mail her on the above address.