THOUSANDS of women shared stories of heartbreak and survival in this year’s Race for Life run around the Knavesmire.

Women of all ages, children, dogs and babies ran, jogged and walked a 10km and 5km course around the vast open space to help raise £145,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Everyone taking part was aiming to raise as much money as possible in memory of a loved one, relative or friend who had battled the disease.

Some taking part had recovered from cancer themselves or were running to remember someone who had lost their battle.

This year’s army of 2,000 volunteers in pink packed into the Knavesmire for the 11am start and set off knowing they had raised hundreds of thousands to fund the fight against cancer.

Gwendoline Rayner, 52, who works for Age UK in Walmgate, was running along with her sisters Sue and Barbara, who have both lost their partners to cancer.

She said: “We have done this every year for the last six or seven years in different venues and it’s great.

“It’s a fabulous day and brings everyone together.”

Chris Sainter, 62, from Bradford, was diagnosed with cancer in 2004, but fought off the disease.

She said: “I’ve run since 2003. I had cancer in 2004 which I recovered from, but my son had leukaemia when he was two and he is now 42, so it has reached all of our family.

“This is all about celebrating and it’s very moving when you see everyone together.

“Everyone has different reasons to do this and people to remember.”

Sally Hogg, from Clifton Moor, took part for her dad, Geoff Lucas, who has been battling cancer for three years.

She said: “I’m raising money for everyone with cancer, but really for my dad.

“I’ve done it before and it’s great for the atmosphere.”

Philippa Sharpe, event manager for Cancer Research UK, said: “The people of York really come out for this and this year we have had 2,000 women raise just over £145,000.

“The atmosphere is great and everyone in York gets behind this.”

This year’s event took place under blue skies and warm temperatures, which made for difficult running conditions, but the first to cross the line was York Athletic Club’s Millie Anderson, 14, from Fishergate.

The Pretty Muddy Race for Life obstacle course takes place on the Knavesmire on Saturday, September 16.

Entries are open at www.raceforlife.org.