The popular female only event involved a total of 10,000 runners and walkers taking part in two races, one in the morning and the second in the afternoon in and around the stadium at Attercliffe.

Many who'd signed up for five kilometre race made a big effort and had dressed up for the occasion donning tutus, tiaras, and outfits varying from red devils to sumo wrestlers and fitness kit inspired by 70s runners.

There was also a mass of pink wigs, pink T-shirts and pink leggings to celebrate the pink-themed Cancer Research UK event.

Although the outfits were fun and funky there was a serious reason for taking part - the charity needs to raise millions pounds to help scientists better understand cancer, find ways to prolong lives and find a cure for different forms of the disease.

Most women wore signs on their backs showing they were running in support of loved ones who has fought and overcome illness or had sadly lost their fight with cancer.

Survivor Sue Chapman was taking part in the race for first time, alongside daughter- in-law Jay Glave, 32, and 13- month-old granddaughter Holly Chapman.

Sue, from Firth Park, Sheffield, believes she may not have lived to see Holly had her disease not been spotted at a very early stage and been treated so promptly.

She said: "I was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years go because I went for my appointment with the NHS breast screening programme. Thanks a combination of minor surgery to remove the lump, radiotherapy and medication I am fine. If I hadn't gone to that appointment I might not have seen Holly."

The family were planning to tackle nearly all of the route with Holly in her pushchair - but then for her to toddle across the finish line as she has just learned to walk.

"It is a fantastic event and we're glad to be doing this together," added Jay.

For others the event was not just a way to help a very good cause but to celebrate the life of a loved one.

Relatives and friends of Mervyn Heppenstall, from Barnsley, who died from stomach cancer last year at the age of just 60, proudly wore T-shirts emblazoned with his photo and name.

Mervyn's sister Heather Austin, 55, said: "We're proud to be here all together taking part."

Signs on other people's backs also expressed how much they feel for relatives affected by or lost to cancer, including "Janey, a courageous woman who inspires me" and another simply said "For granddad Jack."

Almost everyone taking part in Race for Life, whether young or older, had a personal reason for being there.

Four members of High Green Slimming World Group who all have relatives and friends touched by cancer, had shed 10 stone in weight and were feeling ready for the run as they were healthier and fitter.

Also taking part were friends Helen Godley, from Worksop, and Natalie Fellows, from Chesterfield, both 16, who had painted their faces for what was their first time taking part in Race for Life.

"The atmosphere is amazing and seeing so many people here taking part is joyful," said Natalie.

Karen Abass, 40, who now lives in Ascot came back to hometown of Sheffield for the event as she has lost loved ones to cancer, summing up why people feel passionate about Race for Life and take part every year.

"This is something that affects everyone, it may be that someone's died, or survived or lived with it, but cancer affects all of us in some way," she said.

Before the event started a video was shown to reflect how the chances of surviving cancer have improved in the last 20 years thanks to better treatments.

Footage showed famous faces such as actor Steve McQueen who died of lung cancer and footballer Bobby who died of bowel cancer, but also celebrated the news that pop star Kylie Minogue was successfully treated for breast cancer and ace cyclist American Lance Armstrong overcame testicular, brain and lung cancer before winning his first of seven Tour de France races in 1999.

Race organisers thanked everyone for getting involved and making the commitment to raise cash to support Cancer Research UK.

Through participants' sponsorship organisers hope to raise over £500,000 from this year's Sheffield events alone, which are part of a national series of events, with similar races taking place in Doncaster and Rotherham.

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