Cancer Research UKSep 10 2010

Dawdling pedestrians test the patience of over a quarter of outdoor runners (27 per cent) according to a poll of 1,000 runners by Cancer Research UK, to launch its Run10k series. The results have been highlighted as the charity launches the world's first urban running lane on London's Southbank with the help of celebrity runner Nell McAndrew. The pilot scheme, a kilometre stretch of lane on bustling Southbank, is designed to offer respite from runners' pet peeves with an obstruction-free space to run at a steady pace.

The survey also revealed that a quarter of runners are perturbed by motorists or traffic they encounter along the way and 20 per cent say cyclists are one of the factors that bother them most. Overall nearly two thirds (64 per cent) say they are regularly frustrated by these and other interruptions to their running routes.

Nell McAndrew said; "I'm a fan of outdoor running as it's a fantastic way of keeping fit but running in busy areas can be difficult at times. The Run 10k Running Lane is a great way to fully appreciate the benefits of running with great views, fresh air and a clear route so I can keep my pace. I would encourage everyone to enter a Run 10k event this autumn and enjoy the many benefits of running outdoors while raising money to help fund Cancer Research UK's lifesaving work into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer."

Natasha Dickinson from Cancer Research UK said: "Each year it is estimated that that as many as 1,500 deaths from cancer in the UK could be prevented if people kept more active. In fact our survey also found that almost two thirds of recreational runners (63 per cent) in the UK don't know that physical exercise can help reduce the risk of cancer. The charity's Run 10k series is a great way to start running by setting yourself an achievable goal. We have Run 10k events taking place in wonderful locations and city centres across the country and this year we are urging everyone to enter, raise money and Run 10k to help us save more lives through our groundbreaking work."

The Run10k Running Lane will be situated on London's Southbank at More London on Thursday 5th August 2010 and is open to all runners and joggers from 8am - 6pm.