THE Virtual Festival 5k saw hundreds of runners enjoying the covid-safe challenge in aid of a Basingstoke charity that has long-supported the event.

Part of the entry fee for this virtual race as well - as the Virtual Half Marathon and 10k held last month - mean that organisers Destination Basingstoke can now pass on £1760 to St. Michael’s Hospice.

Felicity Edwards from Destination Basingstoke, said: “We would like to thank all the runners in this race and the Virtual Half Marathon and 10k last month for supporting us. It has been a very difficult year, for everyone and I’m delighted we can make this donation to our friends at St. Michael’s Hospice.”

Russell Denness, group chief executive at sponsor Croudace Homes Group, added: “We are passionate about helping to build strong communities here in Basingstoke and delighted to sponsor the Croudace Festival 5K race again. It is a fun, family orientated race in the heart of the town and, although it had to be a virtual experience this year, that enjoyable, community spirit was very much in evidence, and we are delighted that the race helped raised funds for the local hospice.”