BOURNEMOUTH seafront was a sea of pink as more than 1,200 people took part in Bournemouth's Race for Life. 

The race, which started next to Bournemouth Pier at 11am and went all the way to Boscombe Pier, was in aid of Cancer Research UK. 

So far, more than £60,000 has been raised by everybody taking part and the money will go towards vital research into finding a cure for the disease.

Bournemouth Echo: Bournemouth Race for Life 2022Bournemouth Race for Life 2022

People from all walks of life took part – running or walking, five kilometres or 10 kilometres, with all getting stuck in for a good cause. 

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Competitors were treated to a warm-up session beforehand run by 12-year-old Luis Cummings as he was invited to the stage to lead the pre-race stretches. 

 

Luis, who had taken part in a park run that morning, said it was an “amazing experience to have everybody doing it with me.” 

Race manager Joe Hutchinson said: “It’s a really good day and the weather is brilliant. It’s great to see so many people out here today.”

Bournemouth Echo:

Dee Flanagan, who was racing with friends from Burley Golf Club, dressed up as a unicorn to put a smile on people’s faces. She said: “I love dressing as a unicorn – it makes everybody laugh.

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“The race can be quite a sad occasion when you read what’s on people’s backs and it makes people laugh a bit.” 

Sara Graham was courageously taking part in the 5km race after having chemotherapy treatment on Wednesday.

Bournemouth Echo: Bournemouth Race for Life 2022Bournemouth Race for Life 2022

She said she “wants to do all she can to raise money,” adding: “I was a little worried I would be too ill to make it here today but I’m so glad to be here.”

And 18-year-old Ollie Rawles crossed the finish line first having taken part in the 5km race. He took part for his mum, adding it felt “good to be the first over the line.” 

Friends, Linda and Jane, have been taking part in the Race for Life for 16 years, only stopping twice when the pandemic hit. They said they were “doing it for friends who have had cancer.”