PINK paper messages on the runners' backs said it all - the moving tributes to those whose lives have been claimed by cancer and the celebrations of those who have triumphed over the disease.

One glance at the heartfelt messages worn by Race for Life runners yesterday was enough to understand why some 10,000 women were compelled to take part in the 5k challenge.

Winning wasn't the main aim of those running or walking the Southampton route which snaked for three miles around Southampton Common, through Highfield and down The Avenue.

Their shared goal was to fight cancer by raising as much money for Cancer Research UK as possible.

After an emotional pause to reflect on their very personal reasons for taking part, the ladies set off - some in teams and small groups, others determined to tackle the course alone.

Race organiser Hannah White gave a moving tribute to two-yearold Olivia Gallienne, a star of Race for Life 2007 who lost her fight with leukaemia just weeks after toddling over last year's finish line.

As images of Olivia and her family were broadcast on a giant screen, some members of the crowd spontaneously released the balloons they had been holding, remembering their own loved ones.

The mood was one of remembrance but also of celebration and camaraderie.

  • See today's Daily Echo for all the pictures and a full list of all the runners.