Thousands of runners take on the Basingstoke Half Marathon

Destination Basingstoke hosted the Basingstoke Half Marathon, 10k, 5k and children's race on Sunday, October 4, starting in the War Memorial Park.

The event, sponsored by Phillips Law, is known for its friendly atmosphere, traffic-free roads and scenic routes, and it once again brought together runners of all ages and abilities in a community celebration of sport.

The half marathon and 10k races started near Crossborough Hill before heading out onto closed roads through the Hampshire countryside, passing villages including Cliddesden, Ellisfield and Farleigh Wallop. Runners tackled some of the area's best-known hills, including the challenging "Big Dipper" section at Bedlam Bottom, before returning to War Memorial Park and the finish line.

The 5k race, now a permanent part of the event programme, offered a shorter but equally atmospheric challenge. Open to runners aged 11 and over, the route followed part of the same scenic course used by the longer races before looping back to the finish.

Youngsters also had the chance to get involved through the children's races, which allowed runners aged between five and 10 to experience race day for themselves. The youngsters completed a one-mile course using the same start and finish areas as the main events, with every participant receiving a commemorative medal.

Mayor of Basingstoke, Cllr Jacky Tustain, was in charge of starting each of the races, and she said: "It is wonderful to see so many people take part in these events. The weather is nice as well, so it is a good day for it.

"I think it is great to have this here in the centre of Basingstoke, giving athletes the opportunity to run around our town, and raising money for Victoria's Promise, a great cause that we are supporting here today."

The team at Victoria's Promise (Image: Newsquest)

Victoria's Promise were the official charity for the day, and they are a partner of sponsor Phillips Law.

The charity had a stall at the event, and Business Manager Sarah Brown said: "We are a charity that offers in-person support and services for young women diagnosed with or have been treated for cancer at Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, The Royal County Hospital Winchester, and Frimley Park Hospital.

"An event like today is such a great way for us to spread the word about what we do. We are a charity that doesn't necessarily want loads of clients because no one wants cancer, but we are there for those who need us."

Organisers say the event was a success and thanked everyone involved in making it happen.