RUNNERS young and old took up a mini-marathon challenge in Mistley and Manningtree to raise funds for a children’s charity.

The area’s NSPCC branch hosted the fun event to raise money and awareness fortheircause.

As the charity was the main sponsor of the London Marathon, branch chair- man Kay Prestney said it decided to hold its own mile-long version in Mistley and Manningtree. About 30 people turned out to run and walk the route from the Stour Sailing Club to Mistley Tower and back.

Mrs Prestney said she was delighted with the response from the runners atthe event, which took place on Friday.

“It was a brilliant morning, with people running or walking across generations,” she said.

“We had three generations of runners, with grandchildren and grandparents running alongside eachother.

“It was a real community affair and people even volunteered to act as marshals at the start and finish lines.

“There were tea and cakes at the finish at the Stour Sailing Club, and special thanks go to them for their help.

She added: “I’m really pleased with the response, we managed to raise £635 in total, which is fantastic .

“I took over as chairman of the branch recently and we already do quite a few different fundraisers, but it’s nice to vary what you do to raise awareness and come up with new ways to do it.

“I think we may well hold a run like this again as feedback was very positive.

“It’s literally a case of taking an hour of your day to join in and take part, so I’m sure there’ll always be willing runners .”

Each participant raised money by donating £20 to take part.