Women in pink as they run for charity

Some ran, others jogged and the majority of us walked. But it wasn’t important how the females of all ages made it round the 5km Wolverhampton track.

What mattered was the fact they turned out at West Park last night to join forces with one reason in mind – to beat cancer.

Mothers, daughters, sisters, aunties, grandmothers and granddaughters came together to raise as much as money as possible for Cancer Research UK.

From schoolchildren to pensioners and even mothers pushing their baby girls, the Race for Life was an emotional journey for many of those taking part as they remembered loved ones affected by cancer.

West Park was transformed into a sea of pink as many of the runners and walkers pinned bright pink signs on their backs showing who they were racing for. Each had their own story to tell, with their inspiration ranging from family and friends to workmates, many of whom had lost their battle with the illness over the years.

More than 1,800 females put their best foot forward for last night’s race, with many dressed in pink outfits, and wearing accessories such as feather boas, cowboy hats and bunny ears. And despite a brief rain shower at the start of the race, the weather stayed fine for the remainder of the evening.

Among those taking part was cancer survivor Ellen Spencer, of Bradmore, Wolverhampton.

The 44-year-old sales assistant at the city branch of Marks & Spencer was diagnosed with breast cancer last May, and since then has undergone gruelling chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment.

She was joined by a group of friends – who were all taking part in tribute to her.

“I’m doing this race for me and for everyone else who has been affected by cancer,” said Ellen.

“I was diagnosed just last year and treated straight away. I’m well at the moment but I really have to take one day at a time,” she said.

One of the youngest walkers was four-year-old Millie Wright of Wombourne, who was joined by her mother Michelle, 36.

“We’re doing the race for Millie’s grandad who died of cancer as well as a friend of mine,” said Michelle.

Brave nine-year-old Emma Bentley of Codsall ran in memory of her grandad, fruit wholesaler Clive Bentley, who lost his battle against cancer just a week ago. The youngster finished the race in just 33 minutes.

Workmates also joined forces for the Race for Life, with teams from Wolverhampton’s Gymophobics and the Express & Star’s classified sales department among those taking part. Organisers hailed the event a great success and hope to raise £236,000.

A second race takes place in West Park tonight at 7pm.

By Maria Cusine.