HUNDREDS ran through Colchester’s Castle Park for a special centenary run.

A record number of fitness fans turned up to take part in the event on Saturday, which marked the 100th park run in Colchester.

Organisers have been running the event in Castle Park every Saturdaymorning for nearly two years.

Almost 400 people finished the 5k race – smashing the race’s previous record of 96.

John Wheatley, run director, said: “We had a lot of visitors from other areas come in to help us mark this milestone and it went excellently.

“We easily surpassed our old attendance record and I think people thoroughly enjoyed it.

“There are far more than 300 park runs across the country now and it is amazing how successful it has become.

“There is always a real family atmosphere.

“We have people as young as four taking part and families going around with pushchairs.

“It’s really taken off and we’re delighted to see it grow like this, especially in Colchester.”

Park Run is part of a countrywide scheme, which sees races being held all over the UK.

Runners can sign up online at parkrun.org.uk to be eligible to take part in any event.