The Traitors winner Leanne Quigley urges people to enter Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life in Wigan

The charity’s much-loved events will be taking place across the UK from May to July and have the backing of The Traitors star Leanne Quigley.

For the first time, the event at Wigan’s Haigh Woodland Park will be held on a Friday, with 3k and 5k options on offer at 7pm on May 8.

Haydock Park Racecourse will also host Race for Life on Sunday, June 28 with 3k, 5k and 10k options.

Every year around 45,800 people are diagnosed with cancer in the North West.

Money raised at Race for Life enables scientists to find new ways to prevent, detect and treat the disease – moving closer to a world where everyone can live longer, better lives free from the fear of cancer.   

Jane Bullock, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson in the North West, said: “It’s time for Wigan to go all in against cancer.

“Whether you’re a five-a-side crew, book club, dance troupe, yoga club, fancy doing something fun with your friends – or on your own – we want everyone to join us.

“Sadly nearly one in two of us will get cancer in our lifetime, but all of us can support the research that will beat it. Race for Life powers progress and it relies on a whole community of people coming together, united by a common purpose to beat cancer.

"For those who do enjoy a challenge, our 10k events will again be chip timed, perfect for anyone wanting to track their progress or aim for a personal best. But Race for Life is non-competitive. People can walk, jog or run and go at their own pace. What matters most is showing up together. There is a race for everyone and we mean everyone.”

Leanne Quigley took part in Race for Life after her fiancé Sophie Jones was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2024.

The couple led a team which raised more than £1,200 by completing a Pretty Muddy event last summer – an emotional milestone which marked the end of almost a year of treatment.

Sophie, 33, who is now in remission, had five rounds of chemotherapy, followed by two weeks of radiotherapy, to treat HER2 positive breast cancer.

Cancer Research UK scientists carried out work that was key in the development of the breast cancer drug Herceptin, which is among the treatments Sophie received. They also led clinical trials to show Herceptin improves survival.

Leanne, 30, who won series three of The Traitors, said: “I’m all in against cancer. It was incredibly hard watching Sophie, the person I love, go through cancer and it put life into perspective.

“It was our gang, our close family and friends who got us through the toughest of times. Crossing the finish line at Race for Life with these people was unforgettable.

“Sophie is back at work now, we’re planning our wedding and our twin boys turn three in January so there’s plenty to look forward to. And we’re supporting Race for Life to help others facing cancer right now.”

To enter, visit raceforlife.org.

Anyone who signs up in January can claim 30 per cent off the entry fee by using the code RFL26NY.