A RECORD number of walkers and runners turned out for the annual St Swithun’s Way Walk and Run in aid of Treloar School and College.

Between them, they raised nearly £5,000 for the inspirational young people who live and learn at Treloar’s – again a record for this event and with sponsorship money still coming in.

More than 360 people of all ages took up the challenge and braved the weather on April 29 to follow the route from the start at the Treloar’s campus in Holybourne through to either Bentley School for the five-mile finish or Farnham Park for the 10-mile finish - many accompanied by their dogs.

The route featured freshly-ploughed fields, glorious bluebells, lambs and, of course, mud, but a fun time was had by all.

Refreshments were provided at Bentley School where Friends of Bentley School kindly donated their time, facilities and cakes to help make the event a success.

In addition, bananas were donated by Fyffes and bottled water by Hildon.

The route was supervised by outdoor specialists Pied a Terre Adventures and the event was only possible thanks to the army of volunteers who helped marshal the route and keep everyone safe.

Events manager Catherine Bristow paid a special tribute. “A massive thank you to all of our volunteers as today wouldn’t have happened without them,” she said.

“It has been such a success.”

And runner Nicola O’Connor tweeted after the event.

“Thank you @treloars for a wonderful morning running and walking. Beautiful route and perfect bacon sarnie finish.”

Treloar’s has thanked everyone who participated, with a spokesman saying: “Hope to see you again next year - details of will be released soon!”