A PINK army invaded Lydiard Park today as thousands of women got down and dirty for the Pretty Muddy Cancer Research event.

Women donned tights, hats, T-shirts in the vivid colour to show solidarity with sufferers fighting the deadly disease.

The women had to face a series of muddy challenges including a slippery tyre run, a climbing wall and an inflatable slip slide which dunked them into a pool of sludge.

Thousands of runners slip-slided their way through the course and landed waist deep in a pool of mud before emerging triumphant at the finish line.

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Money raised through Race for Life allows Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists to advance research which is helping to save the lives of men, women and children across the South-West.

Loving mum Clarice Smith, from Park North, was inspired to get muddy in support of her four-year-old son Ethan, who was diagnosed with leukaemia in November and is undergoing treatment.

Clarice, 23, and nine close friends and family donned pink T-shirts carrying Ethan’s face and the phrase Ethan's Angels.

Ethan was there to cheer his mum on as she crossed the finish line.

 “My son was diagnosed with leukaemia and without the help of Cancer Research UK he would not have been able to receive the treatment and all-round amazing care that he has done," said Clarice.

“I am excited but I know I will be emotional when I cross the finish line and see Ethan’s face.”

Theresa Chamberlain, 35, from Grange Park, said she was delighted to be showing solidarity with cancer patients and survivors everywhere. She finished the 5k run covered head to toe in mud - but still smiling.

“It’s amazing to be here and even though I am covered in mud it was so much fun,” said Theresa.

“Cancer touches everyone, that is why it is so important to be here today supporting the great work that Cancer Research UK does for so many people.”

Tomorrow will see runners descend on Lydiard for the Race For Life 5k and 10k event