A TEAM of fund raisers are preparing to take part in a charity event after being inspired by their friend who had cancer.

The St Mary's Church group from Theydon Bois took part in the North Weald Race for Life last year in celebration of their friend, who was still fighting the illness.

Team member Fiona Bradley from Woodland Way, Theydon Bois was one of the top fund raisers for the event last year and has signed up to take part again this year.

She said: "A very close friend, Jane, was diagnosed with secondary cancer after having suffered with breast cancer seven years earlier.

"Really, our Race for Life was in celebration of her continuing battle against the illness.

"Jane is a runner and completed the London Marathon just weeks before being initially diagnosed with breast cancer."

The group were amazed by their friends courage and were inspired by her positive attitude and determination to carry on with her life as normal.

Fiona added: "We decided to take part in the Race for life but unfortunately Jane's treatment for the brain tumour coincided with the race and she was unable to join in.

"Her three daughters however did take part and completed the course, along with many of their friends from school.

"We are proud of our achievement and the funds we raised for Cancer Research but much more proud of our friend."

To find out more about the Race for Life 2009, or to sign up to take part visit raceforlife.org.uk/eppingforest.