A FIVE-year-old girl will be taking part in Sunday’s Race for Life in Bournemouth to raise funds for a cause close to her heart.

Leah Hastings, whose mother Nikki is terminally ill with cancer, is planning to raise more than £1,200 for Cancer Research UK.

Nikki from Portman Road, Boscombe, said: “I’m so proud of Leah. I’ll also be taking part in the race but there’s no way I’m going to raise so much sponsorship.”

Nikki’s mother Ann, sister Mel, niece Danielle and other family members will also be taking part in Sunday’s Race for Life along with Leah’s three-year-old sister Megan, who will be completing the women only event in her pushchair.

Nikki, who was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer, has had to reduce her chemotherapy because of the side-effects. She said: “I received scan results this week which showed no change which is good news, considering my chemotherapy has been reduced.

“I couldn’t bear the side effects but I’m now feeling fine.”

As a lasting legacy, Nikki has compiled a moving book of photographs and memories to help her daughters remember her.

She said: “I don’t know about the future. Every time I celebrate a birthday or anniversary I think it will be my last. Some days are better than others. I just have to get on with it.”

Race for Life organiser Christina Tomlinson , who described Nikki as “an inspiration,” said the Bournemouth 5k race at 11.30 am was full. Places are still available for the 10k race at 9 am and the 5k race at 2.30 pm.

• Women can still enter by going to raceforlife.org or phoning 0871 641 1111.