Support rings out for Pattingham Bells Run

Rain failed to dampen spirits at the 24th annual Bells of Pattingham Run, which saw entrants set off on a seven-mile course from the village hall playing fields.

A total of 511 runners aged between 17 and 85 braved wet weather conditions as they followed the multi-terrain course across tracks and fields.

Smashing

Race director Tony Ainsworth hailed the event a huge success, with nearly £3,000 raised for charities that have yet to be chosen – smashing last year's total of just over £2,500.

Mr Ainsworth said: "We're extremely pleased. It's better than we were expecting.

"The rain obviously was a little bit unfortunate – it was the first time it has been wet like that for a very long time – but in all I think everybody was happy.

He added: "I'd like to thank everybody who took part and also the local farmers and gamekeepers for allowing us to use their land.

"Let's look forward to the 25th race next year.

"It is quite a serious run, so next year we are going to try to make it more of a family event to encourage a broader participation."

The run dates back to 1990, when it was organised to raise money to replace the old wooden bell frame in the belfry of St Chad's Church. The church's bells are sounded throughout.

This year's overall winner was Ross Jones, 33, from Fordhouses, who is a member of Wolverhampton and Bilston Athletics Club. He crossed the finish line after 40 minutes and 48 seconds. The fastest female was Tessa Clarke, 25, who runs with the same club and lives in Bilston, with a time of 47 minutes and 54 seconds.

Winners

The winners in the categories for fastest male and fastest female from Pattingham and Patshull were Alan Griffiths, 52, and Amanda Swannick, 49.

Their respective times were 52 minutes and 58 seconds and one hour, four minutes and 58 seconds.

Prizes were also given out for various age categories, presented by St Chad's Church priest Maureen Hobson.