HUNDREDS of runners pounded over rocky footpaths and scaled steep climbs across miles of stunning countryside to raise money for a vital children’s service.
More than 200 teenagers, parents and grandparents put on their running shoes and took to the trail as they took part in the fifth Sandstone X-Country run.
Despite the bad weather, organisers are hailing this year’s race as a ‘tremendous success’ after hundreds of runners flocked to the starting line to pound across the serene course and raise thousands of pounds for the NSPCC Rainbow House in Crewe.
More than £2,500 has already been raised by the aspiring athletes who crossed the starting line for the 10k run at Beeston, before winding around Peckforton Castle and sprinting across the finishing line at Beeston Market.
And, while the runners braved the elements, children and families flocked to the starting line to play on the bouncy castle and enjoy fun and games while they waited for their loved ones to finish the race.
Race organiser Andrea Beaumont said that organisers were ‘overwhelmed’ by the support and generosity shown by supporters and competitors at the event, and said that the race would be going ahead next year.
“We had a fantastic turnout on the day, it was just brilliant, as well as a great turnout from the runners lots of families and children turned up to enjoy the bouncy castles and fun runs,” said Andrea.
“We are really very grateful to everyone who took part and helped to make the event a success. So far we think it has raised just over £2,500 but we are still getting sponsorship money in.”
