ALMOST 300 runners put their best foot forward in Thornbury yesterday for the inaugural Crossways Schools Fun Run.

The event, organised by parents, staff and governors, saw 285 pupils and family members take part in the 1km and 5km races, helping to raise more than £1,000 for the school.

A group warm-up, led by coaches from Future Stars, started the day on the playground to get everyone in the mood, with the 1km race the first to be set off around the field.

The fastest time of the day was Daniel Chapman, who was also the winner of the under-12 category, narrowly beating an impressive run from Imogen Bennett, who had set the pace for the two laps of the field.

Winning the under-seven category was Tommy Garner.

The 5km race, which included a lap of the field before moving out down Streamside Walk, towards Streamleaze field, and back, saw an equally competitive start with adults John Evans and Anna-Lisa Thompson taking the fastest men’s and women’s times.

Not far behind were the fastest under-12 runner, Kalan Rogers and fastest under-seven Daniel Wareing.

Plenty of food and drink was on offer to runners recovering from their efforts

Parent governor Emma Aiken-Jones, who led the event said how pleased she was that everyone enjoyed the event.

“I think it went better than we could possibly have hoped for. To have that many entries in the first year we have organised it is fantastic.

“Everyone said it had a really fun atmosphere and there were plenty of smiling faces on the day. It was great to see so many people getting active and immersed in the fun with plenty of great fancy dress costumes.

“People are already asking if we are going to hold it again and with the support we have seen today, how can we not?”

She added: “Today has been a very special day and I would really like to thank everyone who came along and took part or supported us.

“I would also like to thank our sponsors Thornbury Round Table, Thornbury Rotary Club, WPA, Specsavers and Thornbury Running Club for their support.”