More than 1,400 fundraisers descended on Rhyl in their droves and united together in the fight against cancer.

Women - and men - formed a pink crowd during Rhyl’s Race for Life, which started at the town’s event arena on Sunday, June 9.

This was the first year that Cancer Research UK had invited everyone – men, women and children – to join Race for Life.

Among those taking part were Sophie Leanna Appleton-Hendy, who raced in gratitude of her Nana Beryl Micheu’s successful fight in defeating breast cancer twice.

Sophie was joined by former school friends from Llandudno - Sophie Kelly, Olivia Payne, Kayla Porter, Shannon Richardson and Katie Pasty.

Mother and daughter Sue Lawlan and Carole Hume from Denbigh were in the pink. Also taking part were Tracy Cardwell, of Prestatyn, and Gigi Jeavons, of Rhyl. The two became friends after meeting while undergoing radiotherapy for breast cancer at Glan Clwyd Hospital in 2018.

First runner home was Keiran Kendrick of Denbigh who received his medal from Rhyl Mayor, cllr Ellie Chard.

First woman home was a delighted Vikki Jackson of Prestatyn.

Darlene Fallorina and her children Connor Dean, 11, and Alyssa Dean, aged nine also joined the 5k.

Darlene, of Prestatyn, said: "We were running in memory of my aunt and my aunt's granddaughter.

"Both left me because they were both competitive, especially Connor."

Caitlin Holme, area events manager – North West and North Wales, said: "Cancer Research UK were delighted to return to Rhyl for this year’s Race for Life. It is reported that one in two of us in our lifetime will get cancer, so seeing over 1,400 people come together for one sole purpose is quite breath-taking. We are expecting to raise over £35,100 which will go towards lifesaving research.

"On behalf of Cancer Research UK I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who came to take part.

"The support we have received from Rhyl is incredible. You are all heroes in our eyes."

[Pictures: Phil Micheu]