The Women's Running Network, whose vision is to get all women running whatever their age, shape or size, have teamed up with Cancer Research s Race for Life to provide beginner training groups for ladies entering Race for Life events in the South West.

The Women's Running Network, whose vision is to get all women running whatever their age, shape or size, have teamed up with Cancer Research's Race for Life to provide beginner training groups for ladies entering Race for Life events in the South West of England.For each event in the South West, the Women's Running Network (WRN) will set up at least one complete beginner training group, which is a 10-week programme. Ladies do not need to have run before and it is not important that they run all of the 5km route as this year's emphasis is walk, jog, or run. Having entered the race, the cost of the beginners' training course is £35, which includes membership to the WRN, free t-shirt, hand held water bottle, and beginner's log book, together with a fully trained group leader who will guide them through the training programme.Pauline Beare, Director of the WRN, said: "The partnership with Race for Life is a fantastic way to get more ladies active. All of us have been affected by cancer in some way or another - either ourselves or a family relative/friend, so what better way to help raise money to combat this dreadful disease and get ourselves healthier at the same time? "The great thing about an all-women training group is the non-competitive and relaxed atmosphere; all our group leaders have themselves been beginners and have benefited from the Women's Running Network." Details of the training groups in Exeter and the surrounding area can be found on www.womensrunningnetwork.co.uk or call (01392) 841148.The Women's Running Network are a community project who aim to give all women, whatever their age, size or ability, the opportunity to run together to improve their health, fitness and confidence in a safe and supportive environment. This year sees their celebration of 10 years in getting ladies active and will be celebrated by a number of 10km events. Formed in 1998 by Pauline Beare and Peg Wiseman, two ladies with a passion for running, WRN now has 100 groups across the country, with 2,700 members nationwide, a head office in Exeter and is officially recognised by Sport England and UK Athletics.