GAIL Smith began running the Race for Life after her friend, Rachel Gibbon, was diagnosed with cancer.

This year's race will be Gail's fifth – and her third since Rachel died.

And the 46-year-old hospital worker says she will keep on running Cancer Research UK's fund-raising race as long as her legs will allow.

Gail has picked up a first and second place in the last two years. Her main thought each time she lines up at the start is of her friend, Allestree mother-of-two Rachel, who died from the disease in 2007, aged 46.

The pair met 39 years ago when they were children living in Chain Lane, Littleover.

Gail, who works in cardiac rehabilitation at Derbyshire Royal Infirmary, ran the race last year with her daughter, Hannah, and hopes to persuade the 13-year-old to take part again. They can now both sign up for the 5km run after entry was opened.

Gail, of Merlin Way, Mickleover, said: "Rachel used to babysit for Hannah, who came 11th last year, so I'm hoping she will do it again.

"Rachel was diagnosed about seven years ago and underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy, then was clear for a bit.

"But, when the cancer returned I thought 'I want to do something to help'. That's why I take part every year.

"It's a great cause and every penny helps."

Gail has raised hundreds of pounds through running for Cancer Research UK, which funds research to help more sufferers survive.

The annual Darley Park race is held on Saturday and Sunday, May 9 and 10, and the contest at Donington Park takes place on Wednesday, July 9.

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

Helen Webster, Race for Life event manager for Derby, said: "We hope that everyone will accept our invitation to do something amazing by taking part in Race for Life.

"Women of all ages, abilities, shapes and sizes join in. They motivate and inspire each other to complete the course.

"Many simply walk round, chatting and having fun but they all share the wonderful spirit of sisterhood and pride on the day."

More than 680,000 women from across the UK are expected to compete in 230 races between May and July, raising £60m.

People who want to take part should visit www.race forlife.org or call 0871 641 2282 for more information.

To tell your Race For Life story, call Claire Duffin on Derby 253053, and visit www.thisisderbyshire.co.uk/raceforlife2009 to read them.