Racing for Life.........

Her mother's best friend died of cancer last week.

Paula Miller, 24, was already taking part in the Cancer Research UK event in memory of her dad.

He was an East Sussex fire officer for more than 25 years but died of cancer ten years ago.

"My dad had always done a lot in the way of fundraising for the Fire Services Benelovent Fund and I wanted to follow his example," said Paula, of Saltdean Close.

She set herself a target of 125 but has had to raise it several times because of people's generosity. Her total now stands at more than 500.

"My mum's friend Linda was diagnosed with bowel cancer five years after dad died of the same disease," said Paula.

"They had been friends ever since they had their first bumps - my mum with my older brother Adam and Linda with her first son Christopher.

The whole family have been friends for 27 years and we are very upset especially as she was only 52."

Paula is taking part in the run in Alexandra Park, Hastings this Sunday, June 17.

If anyone would like to sponsor her, you can do so securely on line via the link www.raceforlifesponsorme.org/miss_pablo or drop a donation into the Observer offices in Sackville Road, Bexhill.