A PREGNANT mother is to take part in a race to raise money for cancer research after losing four members of her family to the disease.

Jennie Willis and her five-year-old daughter, Hollie, will take part in the Race for Life, in aid of Cancer Research UK, in Darlington South Park, on July 13.

Ms Willis, 32, from Eaglescliffe, Stockton, lost her father, Ted Clarkson, five years ago to cancer, and mother, Joyce Newton, two years later.

Last May, her 29-year-old cousin, William Kirkham, died from testicular cancer.

Four months ago, her aunt, Joan Clarkson, also died from cancer.

"I think you feel quite helpless when cancer strikes, so you feel like you are doing something and fighting back a bit by taking part in the race," said Ms Willis, an insurance company worker, who also has a son, Matthew, three, and is expecting a third child in November.

"It's also about raising awareness. My cousin found a lump and never said anything for years. He finally went to the doctor and only lived for another week. Cancer can often be cured if it is caught in time."

To take part in the race, contact 08705 134314, or visit www.raceforlife.org