EVEN the unseasonal high wind did not deter the 145 runners who took part in the annual Dumble Dimble Fun Runs around Tophill on Portland.

Among the regular runners were athletes from the Royal Manor of Portland AC, Egdon Heath Harriers, Weymouth St Paul’s, PUFC, Portland Amateur Boxing Club and Eddie Garlic representing Portland Tesco who donated the raffle prizes.

Egdon Heath’s Ben Davis, 20, who has tackled the hilly course over the past few years, led the field of 96 in the five mile to win in 27m. 56s, followed by 16-year-old Thomas Hardye student Chris Perham from Dorset Pentathletes who is part of the Great Britain Biathlete Team in 29m 10s.

Joe Toghill, 31, from Portland United FC was third in 32m 43s and first lady to finish in fourth place overall was Ali Young, 24, in 32m 52s.

Walking or running, 49 people of all age groups plus one dog on a lead entered the two mile event which was won by 15-year-old Royal Manor Arts College student Luke Alver bettering his third place of last year by crossing the finishing line in 10m 40s while 13-year-old Thomas Hardye pupil Holly O’Flanagan was first lady home in 12m 14s.

Race organiser Andy De Havilland of RMPAC, organisers of the event said: “Considering the weather, we are delighted by the turnout for the races.”

Jan Dumble added: “Once again this has been a great community gathering and I am very grateful for the support of runners and spectators which tonight has raised £574 for Weldmar Hospice with some sponsorship money still to come.”

“On a personal level, I am gratified to know that after 15 years, runners still arrive to support the memory of my husband Al and son Andrew.”