THOUSANDS of runners raised thousands of pounds for charity in this weekend’s Race for Life.

More than 3,500 women and girls took part in three 5km races at Leeds Road Playing Fields on Saturday and Sunday.

The event raised approximately £250,000 for Cancer Research UK.

And even the unsettled weather failed to dissuade runners and supporters, many of whom were running in memory of late friends and family.

And they dressed up for the occasion too – wearing bright pink clothing and accessories for the races.

Runners, as young as toddlers and as old as 84, took part in the race alongside a few pet dogs, who were also dressed in pink.

Cancer Research UK event manager Helen Webster said at yesterday’s race: “We got the sun this morning and rain this afternoon. We’ve had a real mixture but it’s not dampened anyone’s spirits. The ladies are having a fantastic time.

“We’ve had a wide range of people – and a few dogs. We had one dog in a pink tutu this morning.

“A big thanks to all the ladies for coming out and supporting us.

“Please send in your sponsorship money because every penny will help to fight cancer.”

Kelly Hadden finished the Sunday afternoon race in first place with a time of 24 minutes.