Race for Life failing to attract runners

Thousands of spaces remain open for the annual Race for Life fundraisers across the West Midlands which are struggling to attract entries, it emerged today.

The events have gone from strength to strength in the region in recent years, raising millions for Cancer Research UK. But this year they are trying in vain to attract runners and walkers this year.

With less than a fortnight to go until the next run in Birmingham's Cannon Hill Park, only 800 places out of a target of 2,000 are yet to be filled.

There are three weeks left until the start gun goes at Brinton Park in Kidderminster but only 1,600 places of 3,000 have been taken.

Meanwhile just 1,400 have so far signed up for women-only 5k runs in West Park, Wolverhampton next month which organisers hoped would bring 3,000.

Events at Himley Hall in Dudley and Walsall Arboretum are full.