THEY will be running in their thousands this weekend in a bid to kick cancer into touch.

Almost 6,000 women have so far signed up to take part in a weekend of Cancer Research UK events taking place in Southampton with one united cause – showing cancer who’s boss.

But organisers of Race for Life on Southampton Common have today issued a rallying cry to Daily Echo readers who are not taking part in the event to turn out and play a vital volunteering role instead.

Three separate race events are taking place this weekend – with Pretty Muddy returning on Saturday morning giving thousands of participants the chance to make their way around a 5k course complete with obstacles, challenges and of course plenty of mud.

Those taking part will set off in waves every 15 minutes after a warm-up in front of the stage cheered on by family and friends who will turn out in their droves.

Sunday will see thousands more women of all ages, shapes and sizes, come together once again for the annual five kilometre and 10k races.

But without an army of volunteers all of the events would not be possible – and Southampton is on the search for more.

For those who can spare a couple of hours there are four different types of job you could do from helping set up and man our marquees, putting out the flags and banners that line our course, getting water to the start line and all importantly assisting us to hand out the medals to everyone crossing the finish line.

If bags of motivation and inspiration is what you have then you could be a brilliant marshal at one of many points around our courses.

Or maybe having some fun ensuring our Pretty Muddy runners get wet and muddy enough as they take on the obstacles is more up your street?

Sam Beare, event manager for Southampton, said: “Volunteers play a vital role at all our Race for Life 5k, 10k and Pretty Muddy events across the country, so whatever time and skills you have – we’ve got a role for you this weekend in Southampton!

“Without volunteers, our events simply couldn’t happen – your support helps us put on the best events possible to raise lifesaving funds, and ultimately help beat cancer sooner.

If you can spare a couple of hours visit raceforlife.org or email Sam.Beare@cancer.org.uk