RUNNERS young and old took up a mini-marathon challenge in Manningtree to raise funds for the NSPCC.

The local branch of the child support charity hosted the run as another fun way to raise money and awareness for their cause.

As the charity was the main sponsor of the London Marathon, organiser Kay Billington decided to hold their own mile-long variation.

Around 30 people turned out to run and walk the route from the Stour Sailing Club to Mistley Tower and back.

The run took place on Friday April 29, and Kay was delighted with the response of the runners.

Kay said: “It was a brilliant morning, with people running or walking across generations.

“We had three generations of runners, with grandchildren and grandparents running alongside each other.

“It was a real community affair and people even volunteered to act as marshals at the start and finish lines.

“There were tea and cakes at the finish at the Stour Sailing Club, and special thanks go to them for their help.

She added: "I'm really pleased with the response - we managed to raise £635 in total which is fantastic.

"I took over as chairman of the branch recently and we already do quite a few different fundraisers, but it's nice to vary what you do to raise awareness and come up with new ways to do it.

"I think we may well hold a run like this again as feedback was very positive.

"It's literally a case of taking an hour of your day to join in and take part, so I'm sure there'll always be willing runners."

Each participant raised money by donating £20 to take part.

To find out more about the Stour Sailing Club, which helped host the event, call 01206 393924 or visit stoursailingclub.co.uk