MORE than a thousand runners pounded the lanes of the county as they took part in the Worcester marathon and half-marathon.
Now in its third year, the Tempo Events run saw competitors travel through Oddingley, Tibberton, Crowle and Himbleton before finishing back at Sixways Stadium to raise money for St Richard’s Hospice.
At the start of the race more than £15,000 had been raised for the charity, with organisers hoping the figure will double in the coming days.
Jodi Brandwood, fund-raiser at the hospice, said: “The race managed to top last year’s and the weather was ideal for running.
“It is a great honour to be the charity partner for the third consecutive year and we are delighted so many runners also raised even more in sponsorship for St Richard’s.”
First home in the men’s 13-mile half marathon was James Bellward, running for The Royal Air Force, in an impressive 1.15.56 and for the women it was Fiona Blackmore who crossed the line in 1.28.14.
For those who went the full 26.2 miles it was Stuart Leaney who won the men’s event in a course record of 2.40.00 and Alison Boyle also set a course record for the women, completing it in a time of 3.21.43.
Rob Minton, race director, said: “It’s been another fantastic event. A new addition to the event this year was Free Radio’s support and they created a fantastic atmosphere at the finish.
“It was great to see so much support from spectators and the wonderful marshals did a brilliant job throughout the course route. We’re also delighted to have worked with St Richard’s Hospice again and our title sponsors Hewett Recruitment.
“This event puts Worcester on the national running map and we’re already planning on how to make next year’s race bigger and better.”
