The Border Relay for Life saw sorrow, particularly during the quiet evening lap behind piper Isobel Byrt, but also a lot of fun.

“It’s important to change the rhythm of the day,” chairman Carl Friedlieb said.

“It’s not just about survivors, carers and the sad stories, it’s good to see some giggles and some laughter.”

Plenty of the latter occurred during the Miss Genesis Challenge women’s obstacle course, a new event.

Five teams of four competed under nets, over hay bales and in between tyres with eggs on spoons, or not, before the two leading groups supplied the eight individual finalists.

In the decider the egg and spoon technique proved crucial, with the fastest finishers missing the placings.

“If I see anyone’s thumb touch the egg, you’re disqualified,” organiser Floss Abel, of Genesis Fitness, warned.

Musicians performed throughout the relay while large crowds gathered to watch the dance groups.

Participants representing about 135 teams dressed up their tents and themselves to assist their fundraising and enjoyment.

Movers and Groovers figured among the smaller groups at only four members.

Captain Tiger Ess said a close friend lost her father to cancer a few years ago.

“She’s found it hard to be able to come to this event alone so we’ve decided to make a little team for her and support everyone,” she said.

“It’s our first year in so anything we can raise is just a bonus for them.”