HUNDREDS of runners pounded their way around the grounds of a north Hampshire tourist attraction as part of a new event.

Nearly 400 people took part in the Run the Vyne event, taking on either a 5km or 10km woodland course around the National Trust property near Sherborne St John.

The courses took the runners along farmland and trails in Morgaston Woods, and started and finished in front of the Tudor palace.

The event was the first to be organised by Chineham Park Running Club. Other local clubs represented on the day included Basingstoke and Mid Hants AC, Sherfield Park Runners and Tadley Runners.

Dave Ragan won the 10km race, in a time of 36 minutes and 14 seconds, while Alex Bigg won the 5k race, in 20 minutes and eight seconds.

Club secretary Lisa Woolnough told The Gazette: “It was really good, even the weather.

“The likes of Basingstoke and other clubs do put races on, and it’s something we have had in the back of our minds.

“Club chairman Jason Burke approached the National Trust because The Vyne is such a lovely setting, and we knew we would get a good turnout.”

She said the club received positive feedback from those who took part, and would look to make the run an annual event.