NEARLY 2,000 women declared war on cancer by taking part in the Winchester Race for Life today.

The Garrison Ground and University of Winchester Stadium was transformed into a sea of pink as more than 1,900 ladies and girls of all ages set off on the annual female only fun run in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Mothers, daughters, sisters, friends and colleagues teamed up to run, jog or walk the five-kilometre route, wearing pink T-shirts and sporting elaborate wigs, hats, tutus and sunglasses.

Most had attached pictures of loved ones lost to the disease on their outfits.

There was a carnival atmosphere as runners gathered two hours before the event waving flags and blowing horns before bowing their heads for a minute's silence followed by an aerobics-style warm-up.

Do not miss Tuesday’s Daily Echo for eight pages of photographs from the event and a full list of all the runners.

See below for picture gallery.