A RECORD 280 people took part in the annual St Swithun’s Way Walk and Run to raise more than £2,600 for the young people of Treloar School and College.

Starting from the Treloar campus in Holybourne, participants were able to walk or run the five miles to Bentley, following the ancient path once used by pilgrims travelling between Winchester, the capital of Saxon England, and historic Farnham.

This part of the route was mainly flat or gently undulating through meadows, woodland and pretty villages, so ideal for families with young children.

For those opting to walk the full 10 miles to Farnham, the second half of the journey was more challenging, with a long hilly section offering stunning views over the surrounding countryside. But there was a treat at the end, with bacon butties for the finishers.

It is the fourth year running the event has been held and organiser Laura Toop said: “It was one of the best we have had with a record number of entrants who had the choice or either running or walking.

“It was perfect weather and as a result we have so far raised £2,643.”