A PAIR of plucky publicans rounded up friends and drinkers on Saturday (August 16) to join them in a special half-marathon.

Clive Mansell and Hannah Walter, who run several pubs in Winchester, led the team of about 40 people around Winchester as they walked a leisurely half marathon between pubs.

The group got together at the starting line at The Bell Inn in St Cross before heading off through the city to the Fulflood Arms. The band of walkers completed the route seven times to achieve the distance of just less than a half marathon.

There was plenty of incentive to get going as each participant was given a free half pint at The Bell Inn and The Fulflood Arms on every leg of the walk.

The leading runners were Dave Cornforth and Fran Gay. Others jogged, walked and used decorative bicycles.

The most interesting half marathon was completed by Andy Mansell in just under four hours, initially wearing full diving gear including tank, next a small child's bike, next pushing a lawn mower and lastly pushing a barrel full of water.

The half marathon finished with a free barbecue at the Fulflood Arms for all the participants and their families. Everyone who made more than £100 in sponsorship was also given a free drinks voucher and in total the group raised £3,000 for charity.

The event was a mere warm up for Mr Mansell and Miss Walter, who are taking part in the New York marathon in November.

They decided to hold the Winchester half marathon to raise more money for the Alzheimer's Society, the charity they are running for stateside.

The pair said: "We'd like to thank all those who took part with special thanks to Richard Chisnell who was unable to take part so gave a generous donation instead. It was a fantastic day enjoyed by all and a true community spirit was brought together between St Cross and the Fulflood."

Mr Mansell and Miss Walter have found another special way to get sponsored for the New York marathon on Sunday, November 2. They are selling sponsorship raffle tickets for £5 and each one will be entered into a prize draw, where people can win holidays, hotel breaks and meals out.