A brave mum has told the Weekly News why she decided to take part in the Race for Life.

Jess Dawson, of Felsted, began doing the fundraising races eight years ago after she lost her dad to skin cancer.

Not long after, her best friend died of breast cancer, aged just 43.

But more horror was in store for Mrs Dawson when she was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer last year.

Mrs Dawson, of Feslted, said: "After I was diagnosed with breast cancer I had a mastectomy and had my lymph nodes removed and also radiotherapy and chemotherapy, but I’ve been given the all-clear now."

She took part in the event at Hylands Park, in Chelmsford, with her daughter Sam, 18, wants to urge others to consider taking part next year.

Mrs Dawson, a community champion at the Tesco in Princes Road, Chelmsford, said: "Continued support is vital to fund not only the charity’s work into researching all types of cancer but also raising awareness of basic self-checks such as breast-examinations which can help catch the disease early.

"Simple steps like these can be the key to making a full recovery.

"The Race for Life is so important to help raise money for this vital research.

“It's always an emotional day but it’s a brilliant cause to support.”

Donate at justgiving.com/jessicadawson6