Thousands of women and girls last night took part in the first 2011 Race For Life event in Sussex.

Many were decked out in pink wigs and fancy dress as they walked or ran the 5km route in Tilgate Park, Crawley.

Most were joining the event in memory of a loved one while others were celebrating their own recovery from cancer.

The Crawley race is one of nine events taking place at various locations around the county during the summer in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Organisers are hoping to raise more than £1 million, which will go towards the charity s work into the causes and treatment of cancer.