THOUSANDS of women took part in a charity run to raise money for cancer research yesterday morning.

Race For Life Worthing saw around 3,000 pink-clad runners start at Steyne Gardens and, after a zumba routine to warm-up, make their way along the promenade and back to complete either 5k or 10k courses.

The women-only event raises money for Cancer Research UK and goes towards research into all 200 types of cancer.

Emma Shamaya, 21, owner and photographer at Shamaya Studios, Bognor Regis, said: “This is the third year I've taken part in the Race for Life at Worthing and every time it's been even more amazing, rewarding and enjoyable.

The Argus:

“It's such a great thing to be involved in, and your fitness levels are never too high or low. As long as you cross the finish line, you can leave knowing that today you made a difference.”

Runners wore signs on their backs saying “I race for life for...” with the names of family and friends written below.

Miss Shamaya said: “I'm fortunate enough to not have had anyone close to me affected by cancer apart from my nan who is a survivor, so this year I asked my friends on Facebook to list some names for me to add to my back sign for the race.

“Some of the back signs made me tear up. One little girl in particular who must have been no older than seven years old had 'my future' written on hers.”