SOUTHAMPTON shoppers are being offered a novel way to keep fit and prepare for Cancer UK’s Race for Life – hurrying around a shopping mall!

These ladies were among the first to try out WestQuay shopping centre’s “Shop for Life” map – a 2km training route around the mall, combining retail therapy with some gentle training for the 5k event.

The map takes shoppers past all their favourite stores and even includes a stop at the food court for refuelling.

WestQuay is one of nine shopping centres across the UK taking part in the Shop for Life initiative which aims to show women of all ages and fitness levels that Race for Life is achievable.

Head of Race for Life Natasha Dickinson said: “Without even realising it, many women cover several kilometres on an average weekend shopping trip. Shop for Life is a great way to help women prepare for Race for Life with a gentle ‘shoppercise’ routine.”

Cancer Research UK is hoping that 10,000 women will sign up for the Southampton Race for Life on July 12 to raise £590,000 to help beat cancer.

Women and girls are invited to walk, jog or run the 5k course around Southampton Common to raise money to help fight cancer.

Winchester’s Race for Life is at River Park on June 7.

To enter Race for Life and to download your WestQuay Shop for Life map, visit raceforlife.org.uk/ifICanDoIt or call 0871 641 2282