TIME is running out if you want to take part in this year's Globe-backed Cancer Research UK Race For Life.

There are just five weeks to go until this year's event in Birkenhead Park on Sunday May 11 and so far only 2990 people have signed up. But there are still 2010 places available.

Organisers of the event, which raises much-needed funds for research into the causes of this devastating disease, hope 5,000 women will put on the running shoes for the day.

It is the UK's largest women-only fundraising event, where women of all ages come together and walk, jog, or run 5km.

Those taking part do so for a personal reason. They could be cancer survivors of any age or doing so in memory of someone lost to the disease.

Among those already taking part is a Wirral netball team Shooting Stars, which is a member of the Birkenhead League.

The Wirral Globe has been chosen as the event's offical newspaper for the third year running.

The course will take you round Birkenhead Park and the surrounding areas.

Other Race for Life events taking place locally include Liverpool, Aintree Racecourse, June 28, at 2.30pm, and June 29, at 11am and 3pm.

Together it is hoped the national events £50 million will be raised to fund vital life-saving research into the prevention, treatment and cure of all types of cancer.

To enter Race for Life 2008 or for more information, visit the website www.raceforlife.org/northwest or call the hotline on 0871 641 2276.