MORE than 200 people took part in a charity run and walk in what was its best year to date.

The Mayflower Cross Country Run and Walk was held on Sunday along the Essex Way from Harwich Low Lighthouse to Furze Hill playing field in Mistley.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Manningtree Stour Valley, it sees both walkers and runners take to the footpath for up to 13.1 miles.

Free train travel is provided by Greater Anglia, and walkers wanting a shorter route can stop at Wrabness.

Rotarian David Willis said: "It was an absolutely brilliant day, we had the best turn out we've ever had.

"We think about 250 people took part this year, which is fantastic.

"Everybody this year was saying it was a fantastic route with fantastic scenery."

The annual event raises money for charity through the rotary club.

David added: "We're not quite sure how much we raised yet but we should reach a couple of thousand pounds.

"This goes into our charity pot and we keep that in reserve.

"This last year we have sent shelter boxes to emergency zones and it's there if people locally get in touch for local small groups if they have a project.

"We helped Mistley Rugby Club last year with funding for their new building."