THOUSANDS of women and girls of all ages were out in force over the weekend for the annual Cancer Research UK Race For Life in Brighton.

A sea of pink washed across Stanmer Park as up to 4,000 people gathered to do their bit for charity.

Many taking part in the race donned fancy dress as they took on the challenge.

These included pink wigs, feather boas and brightly coloured hats.

Some were doing it in memory of a relative, friend or work colleague who had died - or in recognition of their own battle against the disease.

Others decided to sign up to help support the charity's vital work researching the causes and treatment of cancer.

This year Saturday's race was extended to a 10km event, with up to 1,000 women opting to walk or run the course.

The more traditional 5km event took place yesterday, with almost 3,000 taking part.

Event organiser Helen Curtis said: “It was an amazing day and thankfully the weather stayed nice and dry for our participants so it made for a really brilliant atmosphere. Everybody got around safely despite the challenging hill.”

Plans are already in place for next year and Ms Curtis is hoping to turn it into an even bigger event with a switch of location.

She said: “I think it would be something really special to have that sea of pink along the seafront. Hopefully we can do it next year, but we will just have to wait and see.”

One seven-year-old was a stand-out performer at the race when the race organisers bent the rules to allow Lennon Silcock to be the only male to run.

His mum Beccy Fellingham, who was also running, said: “It was really good, I’m just so proud of him.

“He ran the course in less than 50 minutes so he smashed his target and he’s raised about £2,600 already.”

All those who took part are now being urged to make sure they send in the money they have raised as soon as possible.

For more details, visit www.race forlife.org or call 0845 600 6050.