CHARITY runners added a splash of pink to an otherwise grey day.

The Race for Life saw more than 2,700 women take part in two 5km runs around Castle Park, in Colchester, on Sunday, to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

The charity hopes to raise £243,000 from sponsorship, with the event running for the ninth time in the town.

Cancer patients, former sufferers and the loved ones of those who have battled the illness took part, all wearing pink.

Sonia Holdstock, 42, was running with six friends supporting their friend Karen Boobyer.

She said: “Karen fought off breast cancer and we all wanted to do our bit to show support for her.

“We all did the run for the first time last year, when she was having chemotherapy, and we hope to raise another £1,000 between us this year.”

Sisters Leigh and Mandy Whittaker, from Tiptree, ran in memory of their mother, Joyce, who died four years ago of bowel cancer.

Leigh, 33, said they had taken part since 2004, with their mum able to cheer them on the first time.

“We always try to run, but usually end up walking across the line exhausted,” she said.

“We’ve raised well over £1,000 over the years, and what everyone can give all adds up.”

Organiser Gill Burgess praised the “tremendous support” shown by Colchester for the event.

“I can’t thank enough the women who take part and raise such a fantastic amount of money,” she said.

Another Race for Life is taking place at Essex University on Sunday, July 25.

To sign up, visit www.raceforlife.org.uk