MORE than 800 people including almost 100 cancer survivors took part in a record-breaking Relay For Life in Little Clacton last weekend.

Thirty-four teams took on the non-stop round-the-clock challenge.

Teams must have at least one member on the track at all times during the relay, which raises cash for Cancer Research UK.

The only time the walkers stop is for a minute's silence at dusk when candles are lit around the track in memory of those who have lost their lives to the disease.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • MOVING: The survivors' lap gets underway

Event chairman Jane Smith said: "It was absolutely phenomenal – we had a record-breaker of a year.

"It was like a mini festival.

"We had such a great amount of support from the local community.

"The current total is £93,028 which is the highest we have ever finished the weekend on and the teams continue fundraising until mid September so it's going to go up quite dramatically over the next few weeks.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • WARMING UP: Relay For Lifers getting ready before the start

"Our highest ever total was £115,000 and I'm quietly confident we are going to beat that."

The 24-hour relay started at noon on Saturday.

Jane said: "We had a little twist at the end this year where the survivors presented the teams with their medals which was very emotional.

"We got so many messages on Facebook from people who said survivors they didn't even kn ow had come up to say thank you.

"That's why we do it and they are all so grateful."

This year's relay had a music and movies theme, with teams getting inspiration from Grease, Blues Brother, Calendar Girls and The Wizard of Oz.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • ALL SMILES: Two survivors at the marathon fundraiser

The event doesn't just raise money – it can also change lives.

"I had a message from a survivor last night to thank us," said Jayne.

"She was diagnosed with cervical cancer in May. She is only young and hasn't even started her treatment yet.

"She had been very down as anyone would be when they are diagnosed.

"She felt as if her world was falling apart and didn't know how to handle it

"But she said it was a fantastic weekend and she had spoken to so many people that it had given her a different perspective.

"She has got a long road ahead of her but she isn't frightened any more.

"Rather than thinking she is going to die, she is going to fight it."

Jane added: "Now we are looking forward to doing it all again next year and carrying on the fight."