AROUND 320 runners completed the 11th Alresford Rotary 10k last Sunday in near perfect weather.

Rain early in the day gave way to mild conditions and sunny spells as the runners headed out from Arlebury Park and through the town, cheered on by a small army of race volunteers from the Rotary joined by pupils and staff from Perins School and Brownies and Guides.

The challenging route takes in some of the local hills and the field was soon spread along the country roads out to Abbotstone where the runners reversed their course and headed back into the town along Drove Lane and The Avenue. On the way they passed the water points where they were refreshed and cheered enthusiastically by the Brownies and the Guides with many of the runners commenting on the encouragement.

Matthew Bennett from Southampton Athletics Club won the men’s race in 34 minutes 10 seconds, well ahead of Stuart McClay and James Sawdy.

Rachel Bennett, also from Southampton AC, won the ladies race in 44.58 with Sarah Flannigan second and Marie Fall third.

The children’s races organised by Sun Hill Junior School PTA, proved popular with distances of 500m for runners under seven and 1000m for under 11s.

The proceeds will be shared between the Murray Parish Trust and Rotary charities.

Some of the money raised will go to support the Shelter Box campaign for the survivors of natural disasters such as the Guatemala volcano whilst some will be spent closer to home supporting good causes in the Alresford area.

The Rotary would like to thank all the help and support they received from local businesses who donated funding, water, prizes and help, without which this community event simply would not work.

Next year’s races will once again be on Fathers Day, Sunday June 16.