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.

Ms Hadden, 28, of Almondbury, said: “I’m feeling exhausted but I feel I’ve achieved something for people with cancer and I’m going to do this again every year from now.

“I’m not running for anyone in particular just for everyone and I hope I can get more people to join in next time.”

Lynda Robertson and her 18-year-old daughter, Evelyn, ran for several relatives including Lynda’s dad Geoff, 66, who died in September from cancer.

Lynda, from Mirfield, said: “I’m really proud. We wanted to do it in under half an hour and we managed it.

“We finished together so that was quite an achievement.

“When my dad died I thought I would do this. It’s my first time. I will certainly be coming again and maybe do a 10k run.”

Water bottles and even the portable toilets were coloured pink at the event which was organised by Kirklees and Calderdale Action Team for Cancer Research.

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