RUNNERS were out in force in Whitchurch’s first 10k event on Sunday.

Around 170 people turned out in the scorching sun for the sell-out 5k and 10k routes that was originally cancelled in March due to heavy snow.

Despite the setback and 80 people cancelling, the numbers were brought back up to full count ahead of this weekend and the event raised £600 for Naomi House and Jacksplace charity, based in Sutton Scotney.

The two distances covered terrain across the town's surrounding countryside, starting and finishing at Testbourne Community School's playing fields.

Organiser Martin Dawson said: “It went really well, it was really successful. They did a great job it was a really hot day for them.

“About 170 people came so I’m really pleased with that in our first year and looking forward to 2019. Hopefully it will be the first of many more.”

Martin, who grew up in Whitchurch and now lives in Bath, decided to start up a running event in the town putting his event manager day job to good use.

Naomi House and Jacksplace also became the chosen charity after Martin appealed on Facebook for charities people in Whitchurch would like to put forward, donating 10 per cent of the entry fees.

Each year the town’s 10k will raise money for a different local charity.

Martin added: “I used to be a keen runner especially a 10k and I’m an event manager by trade so I thought I would give it a go. I organised it myself but there was a lot of volunteers behind the scenes as well.

“I know the town and I knew there wasn’t anything there like a running club or a regular running event which most towns do.

“I have got friends and family there so they were ideal help with volunteering. I know the town seemed the right place to start and it’s still got a place in my heart.”