THIS morning's Griffin Chapman Colchester Half Marathon has been hailed a huge success after a record number of runners turned out, raising an astonishing £500,000 for charity.

More than 2,760 athletes tackled the course which snakes through the town centre and out into the countryside.

"There was a record number of runners," said race director Luke Wastell.

"The conditions were really good - it was relatively warm with no wind or rain."

Thomas Kaye, who was running for the Army, was first over the finish line at Colchester United's Community Stadium, in a time of 1hr 14min 25 sec.

Helen Davies, of Ipswich Jaffas, led the women home in 1hr 17min 2sec.

Mr Wastell said the event had raised an estimated £500,000 for good causes, including official charity the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance.

Record crowds also turned out to watch the race.

"We had a large number of supporters here at the stadium - more than we've ever had before," added Mr Wastell.

For a full list of results, click here.

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