Hundreds join in Newport run to raise charity cash
[gallery] Hundreds of people took part in an annual run in Shropshire and raised thousands of pounds for charity.
The sixth annual January Jog was held at Shuker Field in Newport yesterday. More than 150 people took part in the 5km race and another 280 people took part in the 2.5km fun run.
Organisers hoped that about £5,000 had been raised for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Rachel Cooper, the charity's Shropshire fundraiser, said: "This event is just growing and growing. The money raised will be spent on nurses here in Shropshire."
The event is organised by Ian Kevan, pub landlord Paul Quinn and Alan Smallman.
Mr Smallman, who celebrates his 80th birthday today, said: "The first year we had 163 runners, this year it is over 400. It's great to see people still supporting it and raising money for a fantastic cause."
The course had been badly affected by the wet weather throughout the week, but Newport farmer Neil Furniss and Harper Adams University lent a hand by donating straw to help absorb some of the water.
First home in the 5km senior race was Mark Dalkins. Claire Martin was the first woman over the line. The winner of the fun run was William Pilgrim.
Town mayor Councillor Tony Forrester said: "All credit to the organisers for giving up their time to put this event on."
