PEOPLE of all ages and abilities went pink for an annual charity race yesterday.

The Cwmbran Race for Life returned to the Northfields Recreation Ground and although it might have rained, it didn’t dampen the spirits of those who had come to take part or to support.

More than 1,200 people signed up to take part in the 5k race and more people signed up to take part on the day.

Organiser and area event manager Lisa Sweeting said: “I’m really happy and we had a lot of support from people. We are hoping to raise more than £59,000 this year. When people return their sponsorship money we will hopefully reach our target.

“We spent more than £4m in Wales last year and that hoes into research and helps people nationwide.

“It is such a great venue for the event and the rain didn’t put off. It’s actually good weather for running and walking.

“Everyone does it for different reasons, in celebration of someone beating cancer or in memory of someone they lost, or they might be having treatment, everyone has their own reason.”

One of those taking part was Emma Lindsay who had brain cancer

She said: “I had two operations, 33 days of radiotherapy and six months of chemotherapy last year.

“I have building up my strength for it. I loved it.”

Her mother Sue said: “We did it last year, part in a wheelchair and part walking. This year she has done it without stopping. I’m so proud.”

Michelle Waters was taking part for her sister who had ovarian cancer.

“She has beaten it thankfully,” she said. “My sister had cancer but other family members have too. I did it last year and I will do it again, I beat last years’ time.”

As well as t race there was plenty to keep people entertained.

Anne Edmunds, a member of the Newport Rock Choir, was one of those performing at the event.

She said: “It was absolutely amazing. The rain didn’t dampen anybody’s spirit.

“Quite a few members of the choir have lost people to cancer so it means a lot to us. It is very hand to sing when you get upset because you see people taking part. They are inspirational."