Verulamium Park became a sea of pink on Sunday as thousands of runners geared up for Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life.

Around 1,700 women took part in either a 5K or 10K race, with heartfelt messages on display in memory of loved ones or words of support for those currently battling the disease.

The organisers behind the fundraising event are hopeful that the day has raised approximately £130,000 for Cancer Research.

Courtney Culverhouse, Race for Life event manager in Hertfordshire, said: “We are so grateful to everyone who took part in Race for Life, and their supporters, as well as our heroic volunteers.

It was a fantastic day full of emotion, courage, tears and laughter as thousands of women joined forces to conquer cancer. I’m now asking everyone who took part and all of their sponsors to return the money they have raised as soon as possible.”

Ms Culverhouse explained that entry fees for the runners only cover the cost of the event and it is the sponsorship money that makes the difference.

The charity has been in partnership with Tesco for the last 15 years and host a series of women-only races of 5K, 10K, Pretty Muddy and hiking events.