RUNNERS in Dorchester have gone the extra mile to raise thousands of pounds for charity.

Around 360 people took on the 27th Annual Dorchester Lions’ Fun Run in the county town, helping to raise a total of nearly £8,000 for charity.

Runners of all ages took part in the event, which started and finished at the Thomas Hardye Leisure Centre, and the crowds were delighted by the traditional fancy dress costumes on display.

Competitors enjoyed fine weather as they went round either the one, two or five-mile circuit.

The Lions’ fundraising committee chairman Charles Goold said: “It was very successful, we had 360 runners and just under £8,000 has been pledged, which was up on last year.

“It was well supported and we enjoyed nice weather. There were a lot of youngsters, which was lovely to see, and some really good fancy dress on show this year.”

Half of the sponsorship money raised by those taking part in the run went straight to the Lions club while runners were allowed to donate the rest to a charity of their choice.

The Lions will now be handing out the money they raised through the event to local charities.

The stand out costumes on display included children’s character Upsy Daisy, The Stig from Top Gear, a witch and a lifeguard.

Category winners: Two mile men disabled: Stuart Ring Two mile 8-12 year-olds: boys – Scott Wareham, girls – Katy Wilkinson Two mile 13-16 year-olds: boys – Luke Rolston, girls Emma Cazzulini Two mile 17-35 year-olds: men – Gareth Creech, women – n/a Two mile over 35: men – Andrew Jones, women – Ms Butler Five mile 14-16 year-olds: boys – Mark Christopher, girls – Katie Poore Five mile 17-35 year-olds: men – Charlie Wheeler, women – Kate McCready Five mile over 35: men – John Sloyan, women – Susan O’Flanagan One mile under 4: Bea Cross One mile 4-7-year-olds: Indge Thomas