Exmouth runner's race stepping stone

THAT she is raising money for a cancer charity will spur Bethany Temple on when she takes part in Race for Life.

The 19-year-old, from Exmouth, who works for a firm of solicitors, hopes to progress on to doing longer races such as the Great West Run.

And she thought the 5k Race for Life event, which takes place at Killerton House, near Broadclyst, tomorrow to raise money for Cancer Research UK, would be a good place to start.

She said: "I just wanted to do something good, something for charity.

"I have always wanted to do that kind of thing."

Bethany, who joined the Women's Running Network in the town in May, takes part in weekly runs with the group, runs on her own once a week and goes to the gym twice a week.

She said being a member of the network was encouraging her to train for the event.

She has always enjoyed going to the gym and used to go out running on her own.

I wanted to do it with other people, who could encourage me along as well," she said.

"One of my friends was a member of the network, so that inspired me to join — and I'm glad I did.

"It's good to get a bit of extra motivation with my running."

One of Bethany's friends from the network will be an usher at the event and she will be cheered on by her family.

Bethany has pledged to raise £150 for the charity. "I am looking forward to it," she said. "I think it will be quite fun because there will be a lot of people around.

"I will be with other people trying to achieve the same thing.

"I am looking forward to the challenge."

Race for Life is so popular in Exeter that two venues host the event. The first is at Killerton House tomorrow. The closing date for entries has passed.

The second is being held at Westpoint on Sunday, July 19. The closing date for entries is midnight on Thursday, July 16. Women cannot enter on the day.

For further information about the event call 0871 641 2282 or visit www.racefor life.org.