A SOUTHAMPTON mum-of-three is leading the charge of the pink army at this year’s Race for Life in memory of her nan, who died just nine days after being diagnosed with cancer.

Kayleigh, who lives at Waterside Park, is running in memory of Chrissie Robinson and hopes other women across Hampshire will be inspired to make it their mission to take part in Race for Life.

To help rally the troops Kayleigh, 28, sported a warrior headdress decorated with feathers, studs and hot pink laces which women can try on at a ‘Battle HQ’ event which is taking place in WestQuay tomorrow from 11am.

Kayleigh, who was raised by her nan after her mum died when she was eight, said: “Nan had five children of her own but she didn’t think twice about taking me on when my mum died”.

Chrissie appeared very fit – still working full time aged 60 – so it came as a complete shock when she was diagnosed with cancer in a lung in April 2013 after initially being treated for a suspected chest infection.

Kayleigh said: “She was as shocked as the rest of us but during her last few days she asked all her family to raise awareness about cancer and as much money as possible to help others”.

Community nurse Kayleigh and her son, Kai, 10, ensured Chrissie’s dying wishes were honoured by taking part in Race for Life last year in her memory.

Kayleigh, who is also mum to Reggie, two, and Elsie, ten months – had only just given birth to Elsie but she was determined to do the 5k.

Money was also raised for the cause by the Co-operative for who Chrissie worked at the Bridge Road store in Woolston.

A collection around 11 local branches raised £2,000.

Kayleigh added: "Nan never met my two youngest children but Kai - who wrote 'For My Nanny' on his sign - was keen to raise as much money as possible.

"I hope lots of shoppers seize the opportunity to go to the Battle HQ event and sign up.”

Southampton event manager Sam Beare said: “I hope women will be inspired by our Battle HQ to join the pink army.”

“As well as the chance to get battle ready, shoppers can capture a picture of defiance in a Battle HQ selfie station and perfect their war cry to rally fellow female foot soldiers with the help of the Battle HQ ‘Drill Sergeant!

“Race for Life is not competitive. It’s not about being fit or fast.

"It’s the chance to be part of a go-getting, fun-loving and fearless army of women motivated to help raise money for life-saving research to beat cancer sooner.”