THE sun shone down on hundreds of runners who took part in an annual event to raise money for a Basingstoke hospice.

About 650 participants ran, jogged or walked around Down Grange playing fields, in Pack Lane, in the St Michael’s Hospice event, tackling either a 5k or 10k route.

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Team spirit helped many participants reach the finish line as large groups of runners came together to take part, including teams from Unum, Clarke and Son, Barclays, Hatch Warren Runners, Chineham Park Runners and Sherfield Park Runners.

Basingstoke Gazette:

Those taking part were warmed up prior the start of the race by instructors from Beechdown Health and Fitness Club, before setting off around the playing fields.

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The race was started by Iain Cameron, director of income generation at St Michael’s.

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Spectators lined the fields and cheered on the runners as they looped around Down Grange, with the 10k runners tackling two laps of the course.

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As the runners reached the end of the course they were encouraged to sprint across the finish line, while supporters clapped them on.

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First across the finish line in the 5k race was Darrel May, who completed the route in an impressive 18 minutes and 31 seconds.

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It was the first time that chip timing was used, so all runners could find out their exact time following the race.

It is hoped the event will raise £27,000 for St Michael’s Hospice, in Aldermaston Road, to help it continue its work to offer care to those with life-limiting illnesses.

Laura Hughes, marketing and events co-ordinator for the hospice, said: “The event helps us to raise money for our services providing care to patients facing life-limiting illnesses in Basingstoke and north Hampshire. We would like to thank all those who took part for supporting St Michael’s Hospice. We hope to see them again next year.”

See more pictures in this week's Gazette, on sale now.