CANCER survivors will open a relay to raise funds for research into the disease.

A total of 15 men, women and children will step on to the Garrison Athletics track, in Colchester, wearing tops bearing the word survivor.

The poignant stride will mark the start of the Relay for Life, organised by Cancer Research UK.

The lap of honour will involve running or walking around the track.

This is the third time Relay for Life has been staged in Colchester.

Regular runner Matt Beales, who was cured of testicular cancer, said: “You always think it will never happen to you, that you’re too young or you’re luck isn’t that bad.”

Matt, 30, who will take part in the lap of honour and the relay, added: “I was lucky enough to have fantastic support from family, friends and colleagues and fortunate my cancer was not aggressive.

“It means I can tell my story, raise awareness and devote time to helping raise money so we can end the fight against cancer.

That’s why I Relay.”

About 20 teams, each with between eight to 15 people, will take part in the event. At least one team member will be on the track at all times.

The relay will continue through the night from 11am on Saturday, September 5, for 24 hours.

Team members who are not on the track can take turns to rest, eat, or sleep in tents.

The survivors’ lap will bring cancer survivors and the community together to celebrate, appreciate and remember all those whose lives have been touched by cancer.

John Dyer, volunteer chairman of Relay For Life in Colchester, said: “It is about being part of a community united in the belief that together we are stronger than cancer and can make a stand against the disease. It is a unique event with a celebratory atmosphere and everyone who joins in will take away something special.”

He added: “All the teams are coming together to celebrate their fundraising achievements. It’s a day of hope and remembrance and a time when they can see their efforts have really helped make a difference.”

Events over the weekend include a candle of hope ceremony and live music.