10th anniversary events sees runners going the distance for charity

Organised by Newport and District Running Club, the event was taking place alongside a fun run and a special race organised for tots and toddlers.

There were 310 people who took part in the main race, with another 200 lining up for the fun run. The weather proved good, setting the scene for a great event.

First home in the men's race was Christopher Ashford, in a time of 35 minutes and 40 seconds, while Kelly Butler was the first woman home in 42 minutes and 54 seconds.

The event was organised by Helen Holdroyd, Glenn McDonald-Jones and Phillip Hill, with the proceeds from the fun run going to Alzheimers Research, while the money from the main event will be distributed to groups in the local community.

Second in the men's race was Jamie Ecclestone in 35 minutes and 55 seconds, and that wasn't enough as he carried on and completed 20 miles as part of his training for a marathon later this year.

Third was Newport and District Running Club's own Joe Phillips in 36 minutes and 49 seconds.

Second in the women's race was Sally Walker in 44 minutes and 42 seconds, with Sophie Lavery, from Lilleshall and a member of Newport and District Running Club, finishing third in 45 minutes and 46 seconds.

Mrs Holdroyd praised the marshals and the team that helped make the event a success.

She said: "We were delighted with the day, people have said the marshals were amazing.

"Some of them have been marshalling the course for the last ten years so as organisers we thank those who have come out year after year to support the event. Without them you could not do it."

Mrs Holdroyd added: "We had Stafford physios doing post-race massage, there was face painting, a cake stall. It was just a lovely carnival atmosphere and although it was a tiny bit windy the sun shone."