The Relay for Life, which returned to FB Fields in St Clement after a five-year break, saw more than 300 Islanders stay up all night to complete dozens of laps for the fundraiser.
Basked in glorious sunshine, at just after noon on Saturday, 30 men and women who had been diagnosed with cancer at some stage of their lives started the event with a lap of honour.
Soon after, buoyed on by music from several local bands and DJs, members from the 24-relay teams then took to the track – continuing their laps through the afternoon, evening and night until midday on Sunday.
Many of the participants were kitted out in fancy dress, with flamingos, tigers and Star Wars characters all on show.
There were several competitions throughout the day, including prizes for the best dressed individual, tent and team.
As the relay continued there were several other activities going on, including football, Zumba, a tug of war competition and an obstacle course.
Among the most poignant moments was the candlelight ceremony held at dusk on Saturday, during which tea lights were placed in candlebags dedicated to loved ones who had battled cancer.
Speaking after the final lap of the event, Vickie Stable, the vice chair of the Relay for Life committee said: ‘There’s been a wonderful festival atmosphere and it’s been very emotional from start to finish.
Everyone is affected by cancer, whether it is a member of their family, a friend, or a loved one.
‘The relay has really pulled at the heartstrings and fundraising is something that everyone who has taken part has a passion about.’
Ms Stable added that she was very pleased by the total amount of money raised and that the participants were already excited about next year’s event.
‘We’ve smashed £40,000 which is an amazing total and all of that money will be going to Southampton General Hospital’s research centre, where so many Islanders go for treatment,’ she said.
‘People are already talking about next year and what they are going to do, so it’s been a great success.’
