MORE than 1,200 runners united in Castle Park in Colchester for the annual Race For Life event.

Cancer Research UK organisers arranged a double lap course around the town centre beauty spot.

Winding around historic Lower Castle Park and encompassing views of the river, runners had stunning views of lakes and the dramatic Roman Walls and castle.

Last year runners, joggers and walkers at the event raised £41,967, with a countywide total of £593,790.

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Danielle Glavin, Cancer Research UK spokesman for Essex, said: “We’d like to thank everyone from the amazing volunteers to the many participants who give up their time to make Colchester Race for Life such a success.

“We can’t thank them enough for their time and effort, working together we will beat cancer sooner.”

Participants started in the main field, next to the bowling green, with a warm-up act an hour before.

Several stalls got runners motivated with face painting and refreshments ahead of the big event.

Although the exact figure isn’t known yet, those taking part are expected to raise around £95,000.

Vital funds are raised from entry fees and donation pages ahead of the event.

All money raised for the charity goes into research, equipment and changing government policies.

No type of cancer is excluded by the charity, which works to prevent the 163,444 deaths caused by the disease each year. For more information, and to donate, visit cancerresearchuk.org.