THE ‘Pink Army’ took over Witton Park as they raised thousands of pounds for Cancer Research UK by taking part in the annual Race for Life.

The women and girls taking part in the 5k walk or run got into the party spirit as many donned fancy dress.

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A group of 30 parents and children from St Mary’s Primary School, in Osbaldeston, were among those dressed head to toe in garish pink.

One of their number, Anne-Marie Fisher, 48, was diagnosed with melanoma and was on crutches last year, but she was able to take part 12 months on.

She said: “If it wasn’t for the research I wouldn’t be here. It is for a great cause but it is a great event as well, there is a great atmosphere around it.”

Jean Bailey, 65, from Longridge, was also with the group. She wasn’t taking part this year but has done so in the past.

She said: “I lost my husband and my brother to cancer within the space of six months about three years ago, so this is something that is really close to my heart.”

Ann Ainsworth, 48, was leading a group of nine ladies from Feniscowles who help out or have helped out at the Immanuel Scouts group.

She said: “I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November. I finished treatment in February and I don’t have it in me anymore, and we’ve decided we don’t want it coming back.

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“After that we all decided to take part in this event, it’s a great event, it brings out a community spirit and it is a great morale boost for everyone as well.”

The first runner back home was 14-year-old Maddie Elliott in a time of 18mins 41secs.

She said: “This is the second time I’ve done the event. Two of my aunties and my grandma have had cancer so I was running it for them.”

Organisers are hoping to beat last year’s total of £65,000.