Glorious sunshine was an extra boost for the 5,000 women who took part in yesterday's Race for Life in Bradford's Lister Park.

Thousands of spectators lined the route to see competitors from as young as four to pensioners take part in Cancer Research UK's single biggest event.

Nationally, 16 races were held with 110,000 women and girls taking part.

The charity expects to raise £60m from this year's Race for Life. Last year, the 5km sponsored event made more than £320,000 in the Bradford district alone.

A slight breeze made the hot June sunshine more bearable for the 2,500 entrants in each of the morning and afternoon races.

The carnival atmosphere in the park was heightened when competitors warmed up to the Village People's YMCA and I Don't Feel Like Dancing by The Scissor Sisters.

It took more than five minutes for all the runners, walkers, prams and wheelchairs to cross the start line. Some women wore fancy dress and many displayed the names of loved ones who had suffered from cancer.

Race organiser Sarah Maddon described the turnout of racers and spectators as "brilliant".

"It is fantastic that so many people have come here today. Many are sitting on the grass in the sunshine and all seem to be relaxing and enjoying the day," she said.

She said it was very moving that competitors were taking time to read one another's tributes to loved ones - displayed on pink signs on the back of their shirts.

"It is important to remember here today what people have gone through," she said.

Winner of the morning race was Ruth Walker, 28, of Huddersfield, who crossed the line in 19mins 44secs. She was running in memory of her dad and grandad who died of cancer.

Close behind her was Joanna Allen, 33, of Wibsey, Bradford. She ran home in just under 20 minutes on behalf of everyone touched by the disease.

Fourteen staff, including doctors, at Bowling Hall Medical Practice, in Rooley Lane, Bradford, took part in memory of a collegue.

They ran on behalf of all the patients they know who have cancer and in special tribute to Karen Broadhead who died of kidney cancer. The finance assistant at the practice died in March last year.

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