FOR those first over the finishing line it was a race but for hundreds of others it was an epic challenge and a chance to raise thousands of pounds for a cause close to their heart.

Nearly 1,000 runners and walkers took part in this year’s Clarendon Marathon from Salisbury to Winchester last Sunday. The event, which is in its 17th year, is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Winchester and Salisbury Rotary Clubs.

And Basingstoke father Neil Martin, 43, was the first to cross the finishing line, completing the gruelling 26.2-mile route in just two hours, 56 minutes and 31 seconds.

He was greeted by proud wife, Marie, and his two daughters – Samara, four, and Holly, two.

Mr Martin, who works for the Environment Agency, said: “It is a hard course - quite hilly. I was struggling the last few miles.”

The first woman to finish was Jo Meek, from Fair Oak in Eastleigh. The 38-year-old physiotherapist said she was “delighted” with her time of 3:08:40.

She said: “It is a good course. It’s so scenic, time just goes by without you realising it.”

The event was open to individuals and relay teams. Among the relay teams were a former gardener, porter, church warden and member of the congregation from the Hospital of St Cross, running to raise funds for the organ appeal.

Last year, 946 runners took part in the marathon and half marathon, which starts in Broughton, and raised more than £37,000 for charities chosen by runners and Rotarians.