THE sun shone on Sunday as more than 750 women and young people turned out to take part in Ilkley's Race for Life.

It is hoped their superb efforts will raise more than £50,000 for Cancer Research UK to enable the charity to continue it's vital work in Yorkshire.

Money raised through Race for Life allows Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists to advance research, which is helping to save the lives of men, women and children across Yorkshire.

The participants in the women-only 5k event created a sea of pink as they assembled in East Holme field in Ilkley on Sunday morning. The colourful outfits and sunny weather helped created a vivid scene.

The morning started with a vigorous warm-up routine from 10am, and runners set off at their own pace to tackle the 5k course at 10.30am.

By taking on a Race for Life event and encouraging their mums, daughters, sisters and friends to join them, participants were improving their fitness, as well as raising money for life-saving research.

Cancer Research UK’s Ilkley event manager, Katie Mathers, said: “Race for Life events are not competitive.

"They are about an army of women crossing the finish line together in the fight against cancer.

"Whatever the distance, every step taken around the course will help bring us one step closer to the day when all cancers are cured."

Last year, 966 women took part in Race for Life in Ilkley and raised £52,610.

It is not yet known what the final figure is for this year.

All photos by Drew Bentham.

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