SCORES of runners put their best foot forward as the sunshine pierced through the clouds for the return of Basingstoke Half Marathon.

The event, which was organised by Destination Basingstoke, saw people taking part in both the half marathon and 10k gather at War Memorial Park on Sunday, October 2 for an 11am start. 

Runners representing various clubs and causes followed a picturesque route out to the south of the town through the villages of Cliddesden, Ellisfield and Farleigh Wallop.

Sponsors such as Lenovo and Phillips Law brought huge teams down for the occasion. 

Speaking ahead of the race, Scott Roberts, 33, who was supported by athlete-turned-trainer Nikki Hewett, said: "We know how much it is going to hurt. We know the pain spots.”

After smashing through that pain barrier, runners from the 10k made it full circle to to War Memorial Park in impressive time. 

Peter Watkeys, who lives in Hatch Warren, came first - recording a time of 35:11. The 40-year-old admitted he was "exhausted" after his exploits. 

Chrisi Hall, 37, from Chineham, was the first woman to cross the finish line for the second year in a row. She said that it was “really hard work” but shaved two minutes off her time from last year, finishing in around 40 minutes.

Those who took on the half marathon crossed the finish line shortly after. Frederick Slemeck, 32, from Winchester, came in first place with a time of 1:11:51. Alexander Bampton and Robert Wood followed in second and third.

Speaking on the half marathon, Frederick said: “I did the half marathon in 2012 and came second, so it nice to go one better.”

Lesley Locks was the first woman to finish the half marathon, repeating her victory from last year. She said she was “really pleased” with her success. 

See all the best pictures from the day in our gallery.