Southampton Common was awash with pink on Saturday as thousands of people took part in the Race For Life and Pretty Muddy events hosted by Cancer Research UK.

One of the most poignant moments came when eight-year-old cancer survivor Jasper Johnson, who was diagnosed with Burkitt’s Lymphoma last year, was chosen as VIP to kick off the Pretty Muddy obstacle course.

It was an emotional moment as the eight-year-old from Allbrook sounded the horn to send more than 1,540 adults and children on the Pretty Muddy obstacle courses at the Common, including a team of his teachers inspired by his courage.

READ MORE: Race For Life Southampton: as it happened

More than £260,000 was raised by them and the 2,000 people who took part in the 3k, 5k and 10k race routes on Saturday morning.

Elisa Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson in Southampton, said: “Life-saving research is being funded right now thanks to our supporters who fundraise. The atmosphere at Race for Life Southampton was hugely moving - full of emotion, courage, tears and laughter as people celebrated the lives of those dear to them who have survived cancer and remembered loved ones lost to the disease. "

Among those taking part was Starr, left, who was on the front page of the Echo in 2020 when she was described as a 'miracle baby' born during the first Covid-19 national lockdown.

Now aged three, her star continues to burn bright as she completed the 10k race with proud mum Mary-Beth Blake-Norris, 34, brother Leon and her dad as part of a larger group.

Mary-Beth said: "I'm so proud. She did exactly 9 and ¾ kilometres on her bike - like in Harry Potter! - and ran towards the finish line.

"She then hit a wall and had to be carried; she was exhausted. Both my kids did amazingly, they took the mission seriously and showed cancer who's boss. It made my heart swell."

Rory Thomas, 31, and Simon Gilby, 32, were among those who took part.

Simon said: “My grandad passed away in 2021 of lung cancer.

"This is a way for me to pay tribute to him; as soon as I found out it was happening I had to sign up.

"It was my first one, but the first of many more to come. I found it very hard with a bad leg and a bad knee but worth it for the cause.”