RUNNERS who took part in this year's Race for Life events in Nottingham are being urged to send their sponsorship money in.
Last year a third of the women who took part in the event, which is run in aid of Cancer Research UK, did not pay any sponsorship money in.
Over 8,500 women took part in events in Nottingham this year – 5,691 at the Victoria Embankment in June and 2,873 at Holme Pierrepont in August.
But organisers say there are still many who have not yet paid in any sponsor money.
A Cancer Research spokeswoman said: "Many don't realise that their entry fee only covers the cost of the event.
"It's the sponsorship money that really makes a difference. Cancer Research UK relies on money raised through Race for Life to fund life-saving research."
Among those who took part in the Nottingham events this year are The Nuffield Stars – a team of workers from the Nuffield Health and Wellbeing Centre, who raced in memory of friends, family and work colleagues who have been or are going through treatment for cancer. They are urging anyone who has yet to return their sponsorship money to do it as soon as possible.
Team leader Nicki Moulds, 28, of West Bridgford, said: "We were inspired to sign up as a way of getting fitter and showing our support for our colleagues who have been touched by cancer.
"So many people are touched by the disease and we wanted to do something positive to help support Cancer Research UK's life-saving work. Together, we have raised over £3,400 for Cancer Research UK's life-saving work. Our friends, family and colleagues were extremely generous."
Katie Browning, Race for Life event manager for the East Midlands, said: "Both Race for Life events in Nottingham were fantastic. We want to say a heart-felt thanks to everyone who took part or supported our participants, as well as the wonderful volunteers who helped make it happen. Now the big day is over, we are asking our supporters to take one last step by returning the money they have raised so that we can go on funding much-needed research.
"Last year, a third of the women who took part didn't return sponsorship money. Without this money,
''Race for Life can't fund all the research that's needed to help save more lives.
"As the number of people diagnosed with cancer in the East Midlands continues to rise, and the economy tightens, we need the support of local people now more than ever.
"So, whatever the amount, we're asking everyone to make every effort to return their sponsorship money as soon as possible. It can be paid in online, by phone or by cheque."
For more information on returning money, or to make a donation, visit www.raceforlife.org