THE link between a Dunmow construction recruitment consultant, a fireman, a town centre manager and a Cancer Research UK event manager may not be immediately apparent. But they are all busy people who wore work clothes above the waist and running gear b

THE link between a Dunmow construction recruitment consultant, a fireman, a town centre manager and a Cancer Research UK event manager may not be immediately apparent.

But they are all busy people who wore 'work' clothes above the waist and running gear below as they jog into action to challenge local men and women to sign up for Cancer Research UK's Run 10k in October.

Dunmow's Helen Bromley, a 22-year-old employee of leading specialist recruitment company, Hays Construction and Property, joined a team of professionals in the 'stunt' to help highlight the results of a of a new survey commissioned by the charity which shows that the economic downturn is having a detrimental effect on the health, fitness and wellbeing of the nation.

The survey reveals that a quarter of people in the UK are spending more time at work compared to this time last year. Over half of those that are currently working admit that work affects the level of exercise they do.

Taking part in Cancer Research UK's Run 10km at Hylands Park provides the perfect opportunity to get into shape and help redress the work-life balance.

Cancer Research UK's Essex communications manager, Louise Cracknell, said: "We are encouraging men and women of all running abilities to sign up to Run 10k. Although the distance might sound like a challenge lots of people find that they can achieve it with sensible training.

"Everyone has a different reason for entering. Many are trying to get fit, some take part to beat their personal best time, others use the event as a focus while coping with cancer treatment or coming to terms with the loss of loved one.

"Whatever the reason, everyone crosses the finish line with a huge sense of achievement knowing how far they have gone to help beat cancer."

Run 10k is a series of 43 fundraising events which will take place throughout the UK this autumn. It is hoped 1300 participants will enter the event at Hylands Park on Sunday October 4 and hit a fundraising target of �107,000.

To enter - or to download specially designed training advice - visit www.run10k.org

Pictured Helen Bromley (front) and the professional team out promoting Cancer Research UK's Run 10k at Hylands Park Picture: SUBMITTED