Athletes from around the country converged on Canvey for a fun run in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital.

More than 260 runners took part in the sixth annual five-mile road race along Canvey seafront, held in memory of Nicola Kemp, who was born 12 weeks premature and cared for at the hospital.

Nicola sadly died after two months, and her parents Steve and Kay Kemp organised the run in her memory.

Mr Kemp, 39, from Tilburg Road, Canvey said he had no idea the run would become so popular when he first started it.

He said: "It has become established on the national calendar now and there are a lot of athletes coming miles, such as the Newport Harriers who came from Wales. Because Canvey is flat, it makes for very fast running."

Other events were held as well as the run, which was attended by serious athletes, fun runners and a number of walkers.

Children's short sprint races were held in the Canvey County infants school in Long Road and craft stalls were set up.

Mr Kemp, himself a dedicated runner, added: "Every year we manage to raise at least £2,500 for Great Ormond Street, but although it is a fundraising day, the race is geared up for everyone.

"There are not many five mile runs about now, because many are becoming half marathons, and this is ideally placed in the calendar to get a lot of support."

It is not yet known exactly how much was raised.

Young join young at heart - children take part in the short sprint race, won by Bethany Hawkins, front, aged six

Pictures:LUAN MARSHALL

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