LAUNCESTON Tesco encouraged people to support Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life by popping to their local Tesco to see it ‘turn pink’ on the weekend of April 14 and 15.

The nationwide ‘Tesco turns Pink’ weekend saw thousands of Tesco colleagues unite across the UK to raise vital funds to help beat cancer sooner.

Mike Hart, Launceston Tesco store manager, said: “Our ‘Tesco Turns Pink’ weekend is a great way for store colleagues to support Tesco’s partnership with cancer research UK’s Race for Life. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to come together with our customers to help raise vital funds for such a worthwhile cause.

“It’s so motivating to know the money we raise will help Cancer Research UK scientists and doctors find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat the disease, helping save more lives.”

This year, ladies from the Launceston store are participating in the Cornwall Pretty Muddy at Stithians Showground on September 2.

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, is an inspiring women only series of 5k, 10k, Pretty Muddy, half marathon and hiking events, which raise millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer sooner by funding crucial research. Men are encouraged to get involved too by supporting friends and family on the day or by volunteering at Race for Life events.

One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some stage in their lives, but the good news is more people are surviving the disease now than ever before. Cancer survival in the UK has doubled since the early 1970s and Cancer Research UK’s work has been at the heart of that progress.

Emily Smith, head of events for Cancer Research UK, said: “We’re so grateful for the support of the Tesco team in Launceston and are glad their ‘Tesco Turns Pink’ weekend was such a success.

“Money raised through Race for Life is helping to drive research to beat over 200 types of cancer — that’s why every person who shows their support can make a real difference in the fight against the disease.”