DOZENS of determined cancer survivors took their turn trekking around a track suring a 24-hour relay.

More than 180 participants, including 28 cancer survivors, braved the rain as they marched around Colchester Garrison athletics track.

Colchester’s Relay For Life saw 14 teams walking or running laps of the track in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Last year’s event raised a huge £23,000 for the cause, with £181,000 raised in total since the relay first launched in 2013.

Event chairman Kate Richardson expects to have beaten last year’s total once the donations have been counted.

“Given the weather conditions, it went remarkably well,” she said.

“It showed how truly committed everyone is to finding a cure for cancer.

“We’ve heard some really touching stories this year and we already know we have beaten last year’s total.”

The relay started at 11am on Saturday, with one member of each team on the track at all times for 24 hours.

At dusk, the Candle of Hope ceremony saw bags decorated with messages filled with sand and illuminated across the track.

There were also fete stalls, a barbecue, face-painting, and raffles, as well as an appearance from Colchester United youth players.