VIDEO: Thousands of women Race for Life
Eager fund-raisers braved traffic queues and high temperatures this morning, to make their way to Nowton Park for the annual Race for Life.
The event, to raise funds for Cancer Research UK, is in its 10th year.
Two events are being held - a morning and afternoon race - attracting 3,700 women who will walk, jog or run the 5km course to raise funds for charity.
For many participants, the Race for Life is not just an opportunity to raise money but also a chance to pay tribute to those who have won - and lost - their battles with cancer.
Karen Foster, of Barrow, was running in memory of her mother Christine Foster, who died of lung and bone cancer on October 23, 2009.
"I took part last year for my aunt, who had breast cancer but got over it," she said.
"This time, it is for my mum. It means an awful lot to me."
She said she had already raised 200, but hoped to have a final total of 300.
Tesco employee and Bury St Edmunds resident Katie Hartwell was taking on the route with a large number of colleagues from the St Saviour's Store.
"I'm running for my Auntie Jill, who died last year. She was due to do the Race for Life last year but then she was diagnosed, so today I am going to get her the medal she never won," she said.
Organiser Gemma Turpin, of Cancer Research UK, said it was hoped the Bury event would raise 225,000.
"For many of you here today, this is a lot more than a walk, jog or run. You are here because you know someone who's been affected by cancer," she said, before asking participants to take a moment's silence for those have died.
She also urged participants to send back their sponsorship, as one in three people do not return their money.
"Please send back however much money you collect. Every single penny that you raise goes into the life saving work of Cancer Research UK," she said.
Karen Perkins, of Rosemary Conley Slimming Club, led the energetic warm-up for the 10th eyar in a row.
Although the Race for Life is not a race, some runners did complete their 5km in quick time - with Briony Smith finishing first.
For pictures, see the Bury Free Press on Friday.
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Weather for Bury St Edmunds
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Light snow
Temperature: -2 C to 1 C
Wind Speed: 6 mph
Wind direction: North
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: -5 C to 0 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: South east
