ONE thousand people took to the tarmac at a Hampshire airport to raise £30,000 for charity.

Southampton Airport hosted yet another successful Runway Run on June 23, raising more than £30,000 for its charity partner, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA).

A record 1,000 runners had an early start to participate in one of the biggest runs of its kind in the UK - a total of 300 more than in 2018.

Neil Garwood, managing director at Southampton Airport, was among those running for the life-saving charity.

He said: “This is the third year running that HIOWAA has been our charity partner for our Runway Run, and it’s been incredible to see that, despite the early start and the increased number of places available, the run was sold out within eight days.

“HIOWAA is an outstanding charity and it was very moving to see such commitment from the runners on the day, with many wearing fancy dress and offering support to fellow runners. A huge thank you to all the runners, volunteers and airport staff for creating such a fantastic atmosphere.”

As part of their ongoing green initiatives, and in an effort to step away from single-use plastic, both parties provided water stations for runners to fill up their water bottles.

Alex Lochrane, CEO of HIOWAA, said: “A heartfelt thank you to Southampton Airport for making our three-year partnership such an unprecedented success.”

The Runway Run was attended by 73-year old Carol Thomas, know as the Runway Junkie, who travels around the world participating in runway runs.

Carol said: “This is my 31st runway run in three years, and I feel totally exhilarated.

“It’s my first time running in Southampton and been it’s a great experience.

“The runway is very smooth and clear without a headwind.

“ I think what the airport is doing for such a wonderful cause is remarkable, and I would really like to come back one day.”

Joshua Goldfinch was the first person to cross the finish line, while Jen Granger was the fastest female runner on the day.