SPORTING folk limbered up around Bromsgrove on Sunday to raise cash for the town's Leukaemia Research Fund branch.

More than 300 competitors entered the popular Bromsgrove Fun Run, which kicked off at Bromsgrove Rugby Club, in Finstall Road, at 11am.

Runners travelled the length and breadth of the country to take part in the event, which is now in its 14th year.

The cancer charity's branch chairman, Nicole Harris, of Stoke Heath, was delighted with the level of support - despite stiff competition from World Cup matches, the Rubery Half Marathon, Race for Life, in Worcester, and Father's Day.

"It's great that people come back year after year," said the community-spirited French teacher. "The event usually raises about £5,000 and I hope we can match that figure this year.

"Our winners did extremely well and made it back in time for the Ireland versus Spain match on Sunday afternoon.

"The weather was very muggy and it was a tough race for some participants."

The 10km trek winners were Peter Collins, of Halesowen and Rowena Bales, of Alvechurch.

Nigel Davey and Kate Haley, both of Bromsgrove, scooped firsts in the 5km race.

Entrants, who were all aged 16 plus, received a medal.

The Living Well Health Club, at the Hilton Hotel, in Birmingham Road, Bromsgrove, sponsored the day and provided prizes for the winners.

Sponsor money and forms can now be banked at NatWest, in Bromsgrove High Street, or sent to Nicole Harris, of 71 Redditch Road, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 4JP.