ABOUT 1,500 women and girls completed this year’s Colchester Race for Life.

The annual event, which raises money for Cancer Research UK, took place in Castle Park, in Colchester on Sunday.

Organisers hope the fundraiser will bring in £105,000 for the charity, which aims to find cures for the 200 different types of cancer.

The field was treated to a warm-up by Tiptree’s Townsend Twins, Chloe and Francesca, before setting off around Castle Park on the 5k trek, which was marshalled by Colchester Harriers running club members.

Event manager Leander Platten said: “The final figure we’re hoping for is £105,000, which would be unbelievable.

“It was a great atmosphere - it means a lot of things to a lot of people and there is a rollercoaster of emotions going on but I know almost everyone finished it with a smile on their face.

“The people of Colchester are really good at supporting the event and in the fundraising they do.

“What was really great was the fact so many people made a day of it by either bringing a picnic or sticking around afterwards to celebrate.”

Mr Platten added: “I’m always wanting more but we know how lucky we are with the support and we would never take anything for granted.”