The Norfolk Showground became a sea of pink as thousands of women affected by cancer ran, jogged or walked today and many men cheered them on.

From those who have lost loved ones to survivors of the disease, women put on their running shoes to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Four races for life are being held in and around the showground this weekend. A 10km and 5km race was held today and tomorrow more women will be taking part.

Friends Susan Hollingworth, 53 and Sally Hadwen, 60 were competitors.

Mrs Hollingworth, from Watton, said: 'I had breast cancer in 2002. I has a mastectomy and chemotherapy and radio therapy. I am here fit and healthy. The support I had was second to none.'

She said that she was able to speak to people who were going through it too.

'There was a really good support network. I could pick up the phone and have someone to talk to.'

'Recovering has made me really positive.

'I am lucky that I am still here and I have really good family and friends to support me. Even in these hard economic times people can give something.'

Her friend Sally Hadwen, 60, also from Watton, was running with her.

She lost her husband Martin to cancer six-months-ago. The cancer started in his kidneys and spread to his lungs. He had been ill for three years.

The day especially poignant for her as it would have been her and her husband's 35th wedding anniversary.

She said that Macmillan nurses had been amazing and had supported her while she nursed her husband at home until he died.

'I am going to think about him the whole way around', she said.

• Today there will be 5km races at 11am and 3pm at the Norfolk Showground.

On Tuesday there will be a Race for Life at Houghton Hall near Fakenham at 7pm.

For the full story see Monday's newspaper.