UNDER dull November skies 165 soaked and intrepid runners took to the countryside of the Hampton Estate in Seale, near Farnham and ran the this inaugural ‘rural’ 10k race organised by Tribe, a London-based running and nutrition company, which had been tempted out into the sticks.

The ‘townie’ core of runners were bolstered by many from Farnham Runners and others from the Farnham area and thanks to everyone’s kindness, a contribution of £700 from ticket sales and refreshments will be given to The Simon Trust - a new charity which is helping Surrey County Council to build three houses near Cranleigh for 10 young people with severe autism and learning difficulties.

The start was overseen by Bill and Chloe Biddell, who allowed the use of their land. There was no actual winner of the run, as everyone just wanted to have fun.

The party restarted as soaked runners dragged tired legs back to Hampton, with noisy chatter, music and welcome food to enjoy.

Several of the runners were being sponsored for The Simon Trust, one commented: “As always we are very fortunate to live on the doorstep of such beautiful countryside and a generous landowner who gave permission to enable the race.

“Despite the wet, windy and muddy conditions it was great to be out enjoying the countryside, albeit on a tough course.”

Sally Lawrence, chairman of The Simon Trust, said: “Huge thanks to all the inspiring staff at Tribe and to the Hampton Estate for making such a memorable day happen, and for all the money raised for our charity.”