Sunday 16 March saw the first ever Sport Relief Mile held in Huntingdon at Hinchingbrooke Country Park. The event ran alongside over 250 other events nationwide, with the aim of raising money for Sport Relief.

The wet weather did not put people off as nearly 500 turned out to do their bit for charity and compete in the fun runs. After a vibrant group warm up participants took to their challenge of one, three or six miles. Within the hundreds of people that took part there were many families enjoying the run together, people in fancy dress, dogs running along side, as well as the more experienced runners taking part.

There to announce the start of the first race at 11am was Councillor Phillip Swales, Chairman of Huntingdonshire District Council. Participants made their way around Hinchingbrooke Country Park while enjoying the woodlands and lake that the park has to offer. The second run took place at 12noon.

Councillor Phillip Swales said; “We are delighted that Huntingdonshire hosted this exciting event. It was great to see so many local residents joining in on the fun whether it was taking part in the race, getting sponsored and raising money for Sport Relief or those that just came along to watch and soak up the atmosphere. It was a fantastic turn out “

Martin Grey, Sports Development Officer and Event co-ordinator, said; “The event went extremely well considering the weather, it was great to see so many people taking part in the fun run, being active and raising money for charity, the attendance figures were very pleasing”.

He added; “Our thanks go to all those that helped out on the day including Sainsbury’s in Huntingdon, Sports and Fashion, Impressions Gym, St Johns Ambulance,  Slimming World,  the Army Cadets, Yaxley Girls Venture Core, Cambs Youth Offenders Service, local sports leaders and health walk leaders.

The event was organised by Huntingdonshire District Council’s Leisure Development team and Countryside Services team.