THE memory of watching her beloved father-in-law slowly die from lung cancer has inspired Diane Bunting to join thousands of women in this year's Race for Life.

Frank Bunting, a popular blacksmith and farrier, had battled the disease for more than five years.

Diane and husband Michael, 49, believed he was on the mend but routine tests in March last year revealed that the cancer had spread. The 82-year-old died 10 days later.

Diane, a cleaner at Callow Park College in Wirksworth, will join more than 3,000 other women in the Race for Life to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

The 44-year-old, of King George Street, Wirksworth, said: "The impact of someone you love getting cancer and passing away is very hard for all the family to cope with.

"It was really quick and just awful. Until you have been through it you don't realise how awful it is, knowing that he was going to die but not knowing when."

Diane has taken part in the race, at Derby's Darley Park, once before.

To prepare for the event next month, Diane has been out walking with her dog.

"I think it will be quite emotional," said Diane, who has two sons, Shaun, 20, and Darren, 23.

"When you read everyone's stories and see the photos on their backs it is quite moving."

There are no places available for the Darley Park race on Sunday, May 10, with 3,675 women signed up to take part.

But women can still take part in the race at the park on Saturday, May 9, and at an event at Donington Park, on July 7.

Last year, more than 6,500 women walked, jogged or ran in the Darley Park events and raised £388,240.

Organisers are hoping to raise £400,000 this year.

If you are running because you have been affected by cancer, directly or indirectly, and would like to share your story to inspire others, e-mail cduffin@derbytelegraph.co.uk or call Derby 253053.