MORE than 1,700 hardy women and girls braved the rain today to take part in this year's Bradford Race for Life.

Many of the runners and walkers donned eye-catching pink outfits for the 5k fun run, held in Lister Park.

Cowboy hats and tutus were among the colourful accessories to be spotted in the crowds.

Mexican waves got the crowds going, before the race began at 10.30am.

One of those taking part was 69-year-old Kay Adams, walking on crutches after getting a hip replacement in February.

She said: "I don't know how far I will get. I'm hoping to get at least one time round, if not all three."

She was part of a nine-strong team called the Crafty Ladies in Pink Tutus, of Gilstead, Bingley. Their large florescent skirts caught the eye of the commentator, who cheered them on as they crossed the start line.

Another one of the Crafty Ladies was 56-year-old Alison Hardwick, taking part with her 13-year-old Collie dog, Lou.

She said she had taken part in the race before, but for other members of the team it was their first time.

As the runners and walkers got under way, Lister Park was filled with family and friends cheering them on, many sheltering from the weather under umbrellas.

Cheering on Ruksana Campbell, of Oakenshaw, was her husband Calvin and their three children Haris, seven, Zaki, five and Noah, two.

The family set up camp on the grass with fold out chairs.

Mr Campbell said: "We have done this before so we know to get set up and we are okay. We just need a bit of sunshine!"

In total, 1,732 women and girls took part in the event, raising an estimated £110,000.

Cancer Research UK area event manager Sarah Threadgall said there was always a good atmosphere at the annual Bradford race.

She said: "It's like people really rally together. There's quite a lot of them today.

"The weather's obviously not that great but hopefully next year we will have some sun!

"Once they are out there, it's fine. They don't mind getting a little bit wet."