NEARLY 5,000 people braved wet and muddy weather to take part in the Rough Runner Race in East Meon.

Teams from the Blind Society, fire brigade, the police, and other charity fundraisers and runners took part in the cross-country challenge at Bereleigh Estate, the second such event held there.

Phillipa Tyrwhitt-Drake, of the estate, said: “It was wet and muddy, but that did not deter the competitors and everyone enjoyed it.

“There was a real sense of achievement from all of them.”

Competitors tackled a 5km, 10km or 15km race, each with between ten and 20 obstacles on the route.

The Rough Runner Race is partnered with the British Heart Foundation and Sweatshop Sportswear.

For more details about the event visit www.roughrunner.com