“FANTASTIC” was how this year’s Hartley Wintney Fun Run was described by organisers.

With over 100 runners signing up on the day, the village fun run had almost 300 runners of all ages compete in total.

Prior to the event organisers said: “We hope our Fun Run will inspire a strong community spirit in our youngsters. We aim to encourage enthusiasm and a starting point for sporting ambition.

“Who knows? Perhaps we’ll discover a new Mo Farah or Jessica Ennis-Hill.”

The day featured five different distance races for all age groups, including the new 2.4km walk or run, which encouraged any parents, guardians, carers, children and teenagers to get involved.

Other races included the 400m, 800m, 1200m and the 1600m which were for children from pre-school through to year 6.

Each and every runner who completed their run was awarded a medal to proudly wear around their necks.

The family-friendly event and was watched by all generations, with around 800 parents, children and grandparents enjoying themselves on the day.

Many of the younger spectators dressed up as superheroes, along with the organising team to ensure it was a day enjoyed by all.

Non-runners could enjoy face and nail painting, a fastest serve competition, as well as a choice of cake and barbecue stalls for food and refreshments.

The resident DJ also did their best to keep everyone on their toes throughout the morning and into the early afternoon.

The fun run raised a total of £2,000, which will be collected and distributed to local causes that support the health and well-being of children and promote sport and activity in the area.

In previous years the funds raised have been able to help schools buy sports equipment from rackets and balls to hurdles, as well as local tennis clubs being able to put on free tennis lesson for children and families.

Fun Run money has also helped local youth groups such as the Girl Guides buy a new muster tent for when they go on camping trips.

Organiser Andy Shaw, who was part of a team of over 30 volunteers, said without the help of all the other volunteers “the event wouldn’t be possible,” adding that “it’s very much a community event.”

Key sponsors from around the village included the Scouts, Hartley Wintney Football Club, Greenfields Junior School, St John’s Youth Group and the parish council.