A WIDNES computer specialist who appreciates how many lives are saved by cancer research, has launched this year’s Cancer Research UK Race for Life.

Laura Marsh, aged 28, posed with LIverpool’s iconic superlambanana, which has been painted pink to mark the charity’s running season.

She knows the full impact of the money raised by this event, as she works for Cancer Research UK at Liverpool’s Cancer Trials Unit.

She is the charity’s senior information systems developer.

Laura, of Hough Green, said: “I see first hand just how vital the money raised by Race of Life events are to Cancer Research UK.

“More people are now surviving cancer thanks to our work, which in turn relies on everyone who raises money through Race for Life.”

Race for Life is a series of women-only events which raises millions every year for lifesaving research into all cancers, helping men, women and children.

Laura will be running in Southport on Sunday, May 15, and at Knowsley, on July 6.

It only takes an hour for most women to walk the 5k route, the same time around four people will be diagnosed with cancer in the north west.

Race for Life events are being held across Cheshire and Merseyside, throughout May, June and July,.

Cancer Research UK spends more than £2 million on its pioneering work in Liverpool and Merseyside.

To enter the event, visit www.raceforlife.org or call 0871 641 1111.