MORE than 600 runners, cheered on by hundreds of spectators, took part in an annual fundraising festive run on Boxing Day and are on target to raise a record sum for Haslemere’s Holy Cross Hospital.

The 3.5 mile charity run that begins at the Devil’s Punchbowl Hotel and takes a scenic route through the Devil’s Punchbowl before the finishing line at the National Trust cafe, is organised by Haslemere resident Matt Dellar in aid of the town hospital.

Taking part in this year’s run, was Christopher Hinton, chief executive officer of Holy Cross Hospital.

“The run was a marvellous way to spend Boxing Day,” Mr Hinton said. “On behalf of my fellow runners, I’d like to thank everyone who cheered us on, Matt Dellar, who so kindly organises the run, and the sponsors who help Matt put on such a great event.

“It means a huge amount to us at Holy Cross Hospital to have support from our local community. Delivering highly specialist medical care to our patients - all of whom have complex and very serious conditions - is only part of what Holy Cross is about; providing a homely and welcoming environment for patients and their loved ones is just as important.”

“Wilson Electrical Distributors Limited was the main sponsor supported by Keats Estate Agents, Hogs Back Brewery, Sports Locker, London Road Physiotherapy, Haslemere Travel, the National Trust allowed the use of the land and thanks also to The Devil’s Punchbowl Hotel and Show Hire Ltd.

Participants had the choice of the standard run - or the drinking run with a pint of ale served at mile two. Despite the fun nature of the event, there was healthy competition for first place.

David Taylor was the fastest man of the standard run with a time of 22 minutes and 26 seconds and Helen Barran was the winner of the ladies’ race with a time of 27 minute and three seconds. The drinking race was won by Daniel Allaway (24 minutes and 30 seconds) and Sarah Hill (24 minutes and 47 seconds). The Drinking Team Cup Winners were Sarah Hill, James Clarke, Mark Maxwell and Neil Ambrose from Farnham Runners.