A colourful fun run on Sunday, July 3 helped raise cash for the Hospice of the Good Shepherd.

Almost 400 people took part in what has become dubbed the ‘happiest 5k on the planet’, where participants are doused in a rainbow of organic paint at checkpoints along the scenic route from Willaston train station to Neston Cricket Club.

This is the third year the popular event has taken place which included runners, walkers, hop, skip and jumpers from toddlers through to the elderly.

82 year-old Robert Roberts from Ellesmere Port took part in the Hospice Colour Fun Run
82 year-old Robert Roberts from Ellesmere Port took part in the Hospice Colour Fun Run

One member of a group called The Hair Raisers included 82-year-old Robert B Roberts from Ellesmere Port.

Mr Roberts said: “The event was great fun and a fantastic atmosphere. I took it easy and I think I was one of the last ones to cross the line, but that didn’t matter in the least.

“I was delighted to be greeted by so many people who were covered from head to toe in colours. It was a pleasure to support such a worthy cause.”

The team from Flintshire-based Jackson Fire and Security who also sponsored this year's T-shirts
The team from Flintshire-based Jackson Fire and Security who also sponsored this year's T-shirts

Also supporting the event were Flintshire-based Jackson Fire and Security who sponsored the T-shirts and also entered a team of their engineers and support staff who crossed the line in style to the applause of the audience and cheerleaders.

The event aims to raise much-needed funds for the local hospice based in Backford, Chester that provides end-of-life care and support to more than 1,500 local people and their families every year when they need it most.

Events fundraising manager Stefan Robertson said: “We cannot thank the participants enough for their support – the atmosphere was fantastic. We want to build on the success of this event and we are planning a number of exciting events for the future which we will be informing people about in the near future.”

To get involved and support the hospice contact the fundraising team on 01244 851811.