The dedicated women of south Essex have managed to raise at least £222,000 for Cancer Research UK's Race for Life.

A staggering 400,000 women nationwide completed the race, which was held at 150 venues across the country, exceeding the expected figure by 75,000.

In Basildon, 3,000 women took on the 5km course at Gloucester Park and raised an estimated £110,000.

In Southend, 2,000 women came together at the Leisure and Tennis Centre in Garon Park to raise an estimated £112,000.

Organisers hope once all the people who took part return their sponsor money, the total fundraising will also beat the target of £20m.

Caroline Judd, from East Tilbury, raised an amazing £750 after completing the Southend Race for Life.

The 39-year-old has just been given the final all-clear after a year-long battle against thyroid cancer.

She said: "I was amazed I raised so much. It is excellent how many people took part in all of the races."

Published Tuesday August 24, 2004

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