RUNNERS tackled a variety of distances and raised money for two worthy causes.

The popular Run the Estuary event supported both the NHS and Colchester Sea Cadets.

Runners had the chance to take on five, ten, 15 or 20-mile out-and-back routes before enjoying a well-earned cup of tea and slice of cake on board the sea cadets’ ship at the Hythe.

The event was organised by Craig Mitchell, featured around 100 runners and raised £500.

Those who chose the bigger distances of 15 and 20 miles ran from the sea cadets’ ship all the way to Brightlingsea.

Mr Mitchell has his own events company, Craig’s Events, and, since starting three years ago, his fundraisers have led to charity donations totalling more than £10,000.

He said: “It was a great day and there was a cracking atmosphere, with hot drinks and food served by the sea cadets’ staff.

“The runners enjoyed being able to climb aboard and sit on the decks with their teas, coffees, cakes and hot rolls.

“The day went extremely well and we’ve already pencilled in the date for next year as so many runners enjoyed the fantastic scenery.”

The male and female five-mile winners were Austen Mitchell and Natalie Warriner respectively.

James Waterson and Sarah Stradling led the way in the ten-mile run, with the 15-mile winners being James Brunt and Gemma Abbott.

Ryan Ward and Danielle Harrington set the pace in the 20-mile run.