A record number of women turned out in force on Southampton Common to raise money for cancer research. Nadine Bateman reports.

It was a moving sight, as a record-breaking 3,000 women and girls turned up at Southampton Common to take part in Sunday's Race For Life.

The turn-out was the biggest ever, twice as many as last year came along in a bid to raise a staggering £110,000 for Imperial Cancer Research - a target that organiser Simon O'Leary reckons has been beaten.

"It looks like the figure is going to be nearer £120,000 or even £130,000," he said.

Women of all ages and abilities were there, some in memory of a loved one lost to cancer, some to celebrate the recovery of someone they knew, others simply to add their support in the fight against illnesses like breast cancer, lymphoma and melanoma.

There were a few tears shed, but mostly lots of laughter and banter as women of all ages and abilities encouraged and helped each other across the finishing line.

Cheered on by their supporters the participants, ran, jogged, walked and some even hobbled in a brave attempt to complete the five kilometre course.

Spanning the generations, girls as young as three were side-by-side with their grannies, mums pushed babies in their pushchairs and others, obviously unwell, were helped along by friends and relatives.

Whole families of women were there, like 75-year old Marion Slade from Southampton and her six daughters.

"My daughter has been battling against malignant melanoma for three years and her sister Susan, who lost her husband Mike last year, has beaten breast cancer."

The oldest runner was 78-year-old Annette Finch from Southampton who walked the course despite having once had a triple heart bypass operation - and a bladder operation just a few weeks ago.

Asked how she felt, she said: "I think I've drained the bottom of the well! But I had to do it, life was making me an offer I couldn't refuse."

The winner was Judy Morris, 43, from Chandler's Ford. Judy, who works for HSBC bank in Southampton, was cheered on by husband Nick and four-year-old daughter Anna.

"They were as surprised as I was,that I won - especially my daughter."

But, as Judy was the first to point out, it really wasn't the wining that counted.

"It doesn't matter how fast or slow you go, it's just an important chance to raise awareness and money - and it's a great day out!"

For more pictures see Woman in today's Daily Echo.