ALMOST 1,000 runners pounded the pavements of Hook to raise money for a host of good causes.

A record 985 runners laced up their shoes and took part in the 21st birthday of the Hook Fun Run and Road Race.

More serious runners took part in the 10-mile and six-mile road races, while hundreds of others, including those in fancy dress, enjoyed the 2.5-mile fun run.

Records tumbled on the day, with Charlotte Harris beating the ladies record in the six-mile race by 21 seconds, while Toby Smith, from Aldershot, Farnham and District Athletics Club beat the men’s record on the same course by more than a minute-and-a-half.

Alison Pavitt, part of the organising committee, said the money raised through entrance fees and sponsorship would go towards a number of local charities and causes.

She told The Gazette: “We were absolutely delighted with the turn-out. It was a great way to celebrate our 21st birthday.”

Among those organisations to benefit from last year’s event were the Army Benevolent Fund, Hook Football Club, the National Autistic Society and Junction 5 Advice Centre.

The Fun Run was sponsored by First Drinks, based in Bartley Way Business Park. A team of more than 20 employees donned running shoes to take part.

* You can view, and purchase, any of The Gazette photos taken at the Hook Fun Run online at basingstokegazette.co.uk/photosales