MORE than one thousand runners enjoyed an autumn sun soaked Basingstoke Half Marathon last Sunday.

Starting at the War Memorial park, runners took on the 13.1 mile course around Cliddesden, Ellisfield and Farleigh Wallop before returning to War Memorial Park, where participants were greeted by enthusiastic spectators.

Friends and families stood along the road cheering individuals and teams on with many charity and corporate teams participating, including teams representing sponsors Tech Data, Asset Advantage and BMW Ridgeway and Mini.

On route runners also had the opportunity to take in the Ellisfield Scarecrow Festival, as well as a steel band and local residents handing out sweets.

Felicity Edwards, race director, from Destination Basingstoke said: “A huge thank you to all involved especially our sponsors, all the volunteers – all 150 of them – the residents and of course the runners.”

The winner of the half marathon was Toby Lambert, fromWinchester Athletics Club, who crossed the finish line in one hour, 12 minutes and seven seconds. He also won the very first race back in 2011. He was followed by Dave Ragan (1h 25m 24s) and Dave Meacock (1h 25m 57s), both from Basingstoke and Mid Hants Athletic Club. The women’s race was won by Lesley Locks from Hart Road Runners (1h 25m 5s), followed by Sarah Hill from Farnham Runners and Catriona Paterson.

Jonathan Pender, partner at Phillips Solicitors, the headline sponsors said: “As usual the Basingstoke Half Marathon proved to be a great success. Sunday was a fantastic day for running, and a fantastic day for Basingstoke. We are so pleased to be part of this important event to showcase our wonderful town.”

Each year the event proves to be more and more popular. To sign up for next year’s half marathon visit basingstokehalfmarathon.com.

For a full list of names and times of people who took part see this week's Gaztte. 

Part two of the Half Marathon gallery will be up on our website tomorrow.