Runners, joggers or walkers can share in the joy of crossing the finish line and ringing the bell in one of Cancer Research UK’s most popular events this weekend.

It’s been almost two years but Oxford Race for Life is back on Sunday.

Money raised will help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, saving lives as the charity fights back from the impact of the pandemic.

Starting at University Parks, the 10k route starts by taking the usual 5k route around the park and the city centre's historic landmarks and then splits off for an extra 5k.

READ ALSO: First Afghan evacuees arrive at RAF Brize Norton

The extra 5k distance takes in scenery of the countryside, college sports grounds, riverside and then returns to University Parks for the finish by the cricket pavilion.

Lucy Hetherington, Race for Life organiser in Oxford, said: “This year, it is particularly special to see Race for Life return to Oxford.

“The atmosphere on the day I am sure will be moving - full of emotion, courage, tears and laughter as people celebrate the lives of those dear to them who have survived cancer and remembered loved ones lost to the disease."

She added: “Life saving research is being funded right now thanks to our supporters who fundraise. All 400 mass participation Race for Life events across the UK were cancelled last year to protect the country’s health during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Funds raised - whether its £10 or £100 - will help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, helping save more lives.”

Race for Life, which has been in partnership with Tesco for 20 years, features 3k, 5k, 10k, Pretty Muddy and Pretty Muddy Kids events.

They raise millions each year to fund crucial research into 200 types of the disease - including bowel cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, testicular cancer, brain cancer, children’s cancers and leukaemia.  

READ ALSO: BMW Oxford will develop electric battery to rival petrol

Cancer Research UK said that thanks to the generosity of its supporters in funding research survival rates in the UK have doubled in the last 40 years. Today, two in four people survive their cancer for at least 10 years.

The charity's ambition is to accelerate progress so that by 2034, three in four people will survive their cancer for at least 10 years.

Sponsorship money can be paid online, by phone, by cheque or in person at a Cancer Research UK shop.

Visit raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770. You can also sign up on the day.