GLASGOW became a vision in pink when a tidal wave of tutu and fairy wing-clad runners descended on the city centre to take part in the annual Race for Life 5K.

The largest Race for Life event in the UK Glasgow saw almost 14,000 women walk, skip and run the route, which began and ended at Glasgow Green.

Julie Brown, from Glasgow, who has just completed treatment for breast cancer, and 11-year-old Nicky Fullerton, of Crookston, who has recovered from acute lymphoblastic leukemia, signalled the start of the race at 9.30am.

Julie, a financial services consultant, discovered a lump in her right breast last May.

She said: "Taking part in Race for Life has been an emotional experience, especially looking at all the 'back signs' women wear at the event, declaring why they are taking part."

Nicky, who was diagnosed in 2010 and has recently been confirmed as cancer-free, ran with her mum Alison.

Alison said: "This was our second year taking part and we loved every minute of it.

"Being part of a group of women who are so determined to beat cancer was just brilliant.

"I was so glad to be able to give something back and help Cancer Research UK scientists because they are doing so much to understand cancer and to come up with better and kinder treatments."

A number of runners wore camouflage print clothing with "Cancer we're coming to get you" and "Jog on cancer" emblazoned across their chests – a symbol of their commitment to help fight the disease.

This is a race where anything goes: mothers running with prams; children of every age; people who use wheelchairs; pregnant women and dogs dressed up in sparkly tutus.

Angela Bentley, of Glasgow, said: "I'm running with Fiona Watson for Leeanne McFarlane, who died from cancer. Today would have been her wedding day. Cancer does not care about who you are or what age you are; it kills indiscriminately."

Anne Walsh, Doreen Walsh and Yvonne McMerriman all ran, raising more than £700 for Cancer Research.

Anne said: I am running for my brother-in-law and for Yvonne, who previously had cancer, and for several close friends that have died over the past four years."

Doreen said: "I'm running for my father-in-law and for my late friend Louise and my late brother-in-law Robbie."

Yvonne said: "I'm raising money because we need to beat cancer."

Zoe Beattie, from King's Park, Glasgow, said: "I did it because I wanted to help raise money to find a cure for cancer.

"My granny Mary and grandfather Billy have cancer.

"To see all the women and children who ran to help beat cancer was amazing. It was a fantastic atmosphere and I will run again every year to help find a cure for cancer."

Claire Macauley was the first woman to cross the finish line in 17 minutes and 28 seconds.

PICTURES: MARTIN SHIELDS AND MARK GIBSON