TAUNTON'S annual Race for Life was once again a huge success, with £64,051 raised so far for Cancer Research UK's life-saving research.

This weekend 850 people turned out at Bridgwater and Taunton College in Taunton to take part in the 3k and 5k events.

The event has a "fantastic" atmosphere, with races starting and finishing on the Castle School playing fields where supporters cheer on their loved ones.

Runners ignored the rainy showers to complete the route through Longrun Meadow.

Charlotte Barons, a runner on the 5K course, said: "This morning myself and Daisy Harwood took on the race for life 5k in Taunton, running for my nanny Rose and grandad Roger, and Daisy’s uncle Ken who we miss incredibly, and for all those affected by cancer.

"I never ran more than 1.5km in one go, but with the help of Dais we smashed it finishing in around 40 minutes.

"Thank you to everyone who has donated and everyone who came to support, I couldn’t have done it without Dais literally shouting at me to keep going."

She added: "1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime."

Stacey Garforth, a Taunton Race for Life runner said: "I had the best day taking part in Race for Life 2024!!

"My amazing members & colleagues in our Taunton team absolutely smashed it and all for an amazing cause.

"These are the moments that make me remember why I became a Slimming World consultant 11 years ago! I love my job.

"Our members are amazing and there was a great sense of community spirit and support for each other."

Race for Life has raised over £970million for Cancer Research since it started in 1994.

You can donate to Cancer Research UK here: raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org/about-us/donate.