PROUD Lin Barringer will have plenty of support when she takes part in the Race for Life on July 16.

Lin, who was named Woman of Courage by Race for Life organisers earlier this year, will be leading the Sophie's Stars team and they are all looking forward to meeting the 5km challenge on Southampton Common.

Lin and the team are taking part in memory of little Sophie Barringer, who died from cancer of the kidney in December 2004 at the age of six.

Sophie took part in Race for Life with her mum and when she completed the course, she made her mum promise they would always take part in future years.

"Sadly she didn't live to take part again but we are doing this in her memory," said Lin.

The team is made up of friends and family and many of Sophie's school chums will be running.

In all, 10,000 women will take part in this year's events and organisers hope to raise more than £600,000.

It is the tenth anniversary of the major city event that has grown in popularity over the decade. Now it is the largest single Race for Life event of its kind in the country.

l If you are taking part in this year's race and you would like to share your story call Kate Thompson on 023 8042 4761 or e-mail her at kate.thompson@soton-echo.co.uk