MEN will be able to take part in a charity run for the first time in 25 years after a change by organisers.

Race for Life has been an event for women and girls that attracts thousands of runners at Stanmer Park in Brighton each summer.

This year it will be held on Saturday, June 29 and Sunday, June 30.

But this year, men and boys will be allowed to take part to raise money for Cancer Research UK and to remember lost loved ones.

There is also now a 30 per cent discount on entries during January with the code RFL30.

Brighton organiser Jessica Edwards said: “Our Race for Life events have been women-only since they started, more than 25 years ago.

“But we now feel the time is right to open them up so that everyone - women, men and children – has the chance to participate together.

“You don’t have to be sporty to take part. You don’t need to train or compete against anyone else.

“All you need to do is go to the Race for Life website, pick an event, sign up and then have fun raising money in whatever way you like.”

She said that half the population will be affected by cancer, either by having it or by knowing a family member or friend who does.

But survival rates have doubled since the 1970s.

Jessica added: “It is a powerful, inspirational movement which unites participants in Brighton with people across the country.

“So we’re urging mums, dads, nans, grandpas, brothers, sisters, friends and workmates to show their support by joining the Race for Life.

“It’s a perfect example of everyday people doing an extraordinary thing – uniting in a common cause to beat cancer.”

Visit: www. raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770 for more information.