MORE than 300 runners charged around a Northwich woodland on Sunday for an inaugural 10km race.

The first Run Marbury event has been described as a ‘big happy run’ as participants praised the atmosphere of the event.

Rick Dickens, who organised the event with Lee Kimber, said: “I can’t believe how well it went, I’m so chuffed with everything.

“Originally we were hoping for 250 participants and said with it being our first time we would cap the event at 350 and the 350 places sold out with five weeks to go.

“The feedback has been brilliant – people really enjoyed the course, the distance and the atmosphere.

“It was fun and friendly – it was just a big happy run essentially.”

The fastest man was Steven Caldwell, who completed the course in 39 minutes and 14 seconds, and the fastest woman was Michelle Liddle, who ran it in 43 minutes and six seconds.

“The winning time was really good, especially with it being such a hilly course,” Rick said.

Participants were encouraged to raise money for Make a Wish and St Luke’s Hospice, and funds raised are still being finalised.

One of the big fundraisers of the day was a battle between Cuddington and Lostock Gralam football clubs, with players vying to achieve the best average time.

This contest was won on the day by Lostock.

Rick said: “Lostock won but not by much.

“They had three finishers in the top 20, they did really well and everyone got on really well, there was some great banter.”

He and Lee hope to make Run Marbury a regular event.