SLIMMERS from across the region have raised over £1,500 for a leading cancer charity when they held a Slimming World does Race for Life Event in Wotton-Under-Edge.

More than 70 people from Wotton, Thornbury, Alveston and Nailsworth, who have a wide range of weight losses with the group, held a five-mile race to raise money for Cancer Research UK, the organisation’s charity partner throughout 2014.

The non-competitive race was part of a wider national event running across all Slimming World groups between July 20 and August 3.

Those taking part on could choose the distance they would like to cover and seven were confident enough to run the course.

Truck driver Andy Allsopp and framework manager Sarah Deeble from Wotton-under-Edge both joined the group themselves in January 2012 with the aim of losing eight stone each by Christmas.

After being inspired by the group meetings in Kingswood, they joined as consultants themselves and helped arrange the fundraising day.

“It was a fantastic event with a real feel-good atmosphere. We saw young, old, male and female participants enter the event, with a range of different abilities and fitness levels," said Sarah.

“Entrants could run, walk, cycle or skate across the finish line – whatever they wanted – as long as they crossed the finish line we didn’t mind at all.

“We are so pleased with how much we raised for Cancer Research UK and I think the event showed people just how motivating being part of groups like ours can be.”

The funds will help Cancer Research UK conduct pioneering, life-saving research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all cancers.

"Cancer touches so many people’s lives and at Slimming World we’re determined to do anything we can to help people lead healthier lives in whatever way possible, that’s why we’re so pleased that our Slimming World groups got right behind this event and encouraged others to do the same,” added Sarah.

For further information about Cancer Research UK’s work or to find out how to support the charity, call 0300 123 1022 or visit www.cancerresearchuk.org