BOURNEMOUTH promenade was transformed into a sea of pink on Sunday, as hundreds of women took part in Cancer Research's Race for Life.

The event, a favourite on the local fundraising calendar, has been taking place in Bournemouth for 16 years, raising £100,000s to help bankroll the fight against cancer.

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More than 1,650 runners took part in the event, which organisers hope will eventually make more than £130,000 for the charity.

Their reasons were varied - from honouring friends claimed by cancer to simply wanting to do something for a worthy cause.

Caroline Shutler was one of the women taking part. Diagnosed with breast cancer when she was eight months pregnant with her daughter Natasha, Caroline knows what its like to square up to cancer.

"Lots of people prayed for me that I would have a quick labour," she said.

"I actually gave birth 25 minutes after I got to hospital which is very unusual for your first baby."

Straight after the birth came the chemotherapy, and two years later Caroline was given the all clear. Her daughter Natasha is now 22 years old.

Jenny Woods, from Bournemouth, told the Daily Echo: "My sister has had cancer, and this is such a good cause. That's why I'm taking part. I do have an injury but I'm going to do the run anyway."

Meanwhile, Jane Landymore, from Bournemouth, said: "This is my ninth year running here. I do it for my mum, and I've lost lots of friends to cancer."

Race for Life Bournemouth event manager Georgina Horne explained: "One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives.

"Research is very expensive and the only way we can afford to fund it is with the help of our supporters. "Money raised through Race for Life - whether it’s £10 or £100 - will help Cancer Research UK scientists find new ways to treat cancer and save more lives."

Participants gathered at Pier Approach, before the event started at 11am. They ran, walked and jogged the five kilometre route.

This year's Race for Life was supported by Dorset solicitors firm Coles Miller, who had more than 20 staff members taking part by either running or forming the Coles Miller cheer squad on the day.