MORE than 300 runners hit the road on Sunday to give a cash boost to a Wyre Forest charity working with bereaved families.

The Brambles Trust 10k road race and 4k fun run has grown to become the organisation's biggest fund-raiser and is expected raise several thousand pounds.

The event, backed by the Shuttle/Times & News, is now in its fifth year and has previously contributed nearly £16,000 to the group's funds.

Part of the proceeds from entry fees were donated by Kidderminster and Stourport Athletic Club, which organised the event, and many of the runners boosted last weekend's total by collecting sponsorship.

Brambles fund-raising manager, Eileen Vaux, said: "We are indebted to the athletics club for a safe and well organised event.

"Everything went like clockwork and we also have to thank all the local businesses which generously donated prizes for the day.

"Every penny raised will go towards the trust's work and I know that children and families who have suffered bereavement really do appreciate the community thinking of them in such a practical way."

A donation from race proceeds will also go to the Ray Mercer Sporting Foundation, which gives financial help to Wyre Forest's most talented young sportsmen and women.

There was an entry of 213 in Sunday's 10k race which was won by Tom Kenderdine, of the host club, in a time of 32 minutes 33 seconds.

Runner-up was unattached runner Mike Cadman in 36-04 and third was Dic Evans (Cardiff AC) in 36-05.

Home club athlete, Jackie Phillips, won the ladies race in 40-06. Jane Hawkins (unattached) 40-57 and Lisa Yeomans (Telford Harriers) 43-28 were second and third.

The event incorporated the Worcestershire 10k Championship and the gold medals went to Kenderdine and Phillips.

The winner of the 4k race was Tom Sparks, of the host club, in 14-12. Josh Pountney (unattached) 14-29 and Aron Windridge (Kidd & Stour)14-36 were next home.

The host club enjoyed a 1-2-3 in the women's race with Laura Baldwin (16-39), Claire Blakeway (17-10) and Nicky Harris (17-35) filling the top places.

A note for your diary

Next year's Brambles races will be held on Sunday, September 24.

It would make ideal preparation for those taking part in the Great North Run which will be held the following weekend.