THEY came in huge numbers, creating a sea of pink.

Witton Park in Blackburn was filled for the annual Race for Life event, with more than 1,000 people raising money for research into cancer.

With the recent rain replaced by warm hazy sunshine, there were plenty of smiles to be seen with women, men and children all taking part for the first time.

Cancer survivor and mum Rachel Cummings, from Darwen, took part with her daughter Daisy, 10, to raise funds for Cancer Research UK, cheered on by husband Stephen and son Archie, nine.

The 39-year-old, who received life-saving treatment for cancer and was told there was none remaining last year, said: “This event is so important because raising awareness of cancer and helps fund new treatment.

“I’ve been so lucky that I was at the right time and place to be seen.

“I’m still going for regular scans and the last two have been all clear and I’ve been all clear since last September.

“My message would just be for people to look after themselves and know your own body.

“If there’s something not right, then check it out and never use a sunbed ever because my cancer was Melanoma and I wouldn’t wish that on anyone.”

Apprentice finalist Camilla Ainsworth was also at the event handing out her new dairy-free M+lk Plus nut milk.

The talented Blackburn woman and business star, who was a former Westholme School pupil, said: “It’s vitally important to support Race for Life and it’s something I’ve always wanted to do.

“I’m in a position now where I can give back a little bit and support and promote the event and people signing up.

“I also wanted to give them an incentive to finish it by giving them free milk.”

Event manager Sarah Hunter said the event was incredibly important in raising money for cancer. treatment and research.

She said: “All the money that is raised goes towards funding lifesaving cancer research.

“Last year alone Race for Life and Pretty Muddy events in the North West raised more than £3m for Cancer Research UK.”

“This year’s event was our biggest yet and we’re expecting more than 1,200 people to have taken part.

“For the first time ever, men could take part as well, so we were really excited to see more families and groups of friends here.

“It’s always good to come to Blackburn and it has got a really nice community feel and everyone just comes together.”