More than 5,000 people took part in Solas Run and Walk events across Waterford over the weekend.

The annual fundraiser began in Dungarvan on Saturday before thousands of runners and walkers took to the streets of Waterford City on Sunday.

Around 1,800 people took part in the Dungarvan event, an increase of 600 on last year, while more than 3,000 participated in Waterford City.

Those taking part included cancer survivors, families supporting loved ones going through treatment and people remembering those they have lost.

Manager at the Solas Cancer Support Centre Tracy McDaid said the atmosphere surrounding the event is what makes it so special each year.

‘We’ve been really, really lucky over the last couple of years with weather, but even on the bad days the atmosphere carries you along,’ she said.

‘We were at the finish line on the day, and the atmosphere was just joy.’

Solas provides support to people affected by cancer, with the annual Run and Walk forming one of its major fundraising events.

The weekend is expected to raise more than €250,000 for Solas, supporting individuals and families affected by cancer across Waterford.

The event concluded in Waterford City on Sunday afternoon, with Solas thanking participants, volunteers and supporters who helped make both days possible.