RUNNERS pounded the pavements in Colchester’s Castle Park dressed as their favourite superhero all in the name of charity.

Comic book heroes including Superman, Batman and Spider-Man all descended on the park on Sunday morning for the St Helena hospice event.

The fun run, which had a comic book and movie costume theme, was open to all ages and saw more than 300 people take part.

Wendy Marcon, events and challenges manager at St Helena Hospice, said: “We’re so excited that over 300 comic heroes joined us for this super event in historic Castle Park.

“It was a tremendously successful day and is set to raise in excess of £15,000 for the hospice.

“We first launched the event at the brilliant Invasion Colchester last September and we’re amazed at the fantastic support we have had. So much effort went into all the runners’ costumes, they were fantastic.

“Thank you to everyone for getting into the spirit of the day by dressing up and having fun.

“Also a massive thanks to our wonderful volunteers who donated their time and enthusiasm to make this day so great – a heroic effort from all.”

Racers were able to choose from a 10km, 5km or 1km route, with the charity also holding a 1km buggy dash.

Money raised will go towards caring for patients who are terminally ill and their families, both at the hospice and at home.