THEY came in their thousands to declare war on cancer at the annual Race for Life event in Southampton today.

The Common was transformed into a sea of pink as an army of more than 6,000 women from across Hampshire and even further afield part in the annual event.

Daily Echo:

This year £385,000 has been raised by the runners to help vital cancer research.

Before the main race started there was a carnival atmosphere as runners gathered together, many wearing elaborate pink costumes.

Pink wigs, tutus, pink headbands, fairy wings were the fashion flavours of the day and some even donned superhero costumes.

But nearly every woman taking part was also bearing a poignant message on the back of their colourful costumes to remember loved ones they had lost and celebrate those who had survived or were battling the disease.

The runners gathered together for a minutes silence before getting into gear with an energetic aerobic warm-up to prepare them for the 5k route around The Common.

And as they made a final dash for the finish, many held their hands aloft in celebration together while others hugged to celebrate a race well run.