A FUN run featuring explosive bursts of colour raised more than £8,000 for brain injury charity, Headway Essex.

The cause hosted its seventh annual Colour 5k at Boot Group’s Ardleigh Showground.

More than 400 participants, from ardent runners to families and friends looking for fun fundraiser got into the spirit.

They were challenged to pass through five colour zones at the end of each 1km lap, where colour bandits dowsed them from head to toe in powdered paint.

Before the race, a colour extravaganza gave everyone involved the chance to throw colour at friends, family and anyone else who wanted to join in the fun.

Tracy Wellsted, Headway fundraising manager, said: “A good time was had by all and it was inspiring to see so many families, friends and co-workers having such an amazing time together.

“We cannot thank everyone enough for their support. We’re over the moon with the money raised which will go directly towards providing rehabilitation and support for brain injury survivors and their families and carers across Essex.

“Headway Essex would like to thank Boot Group for once again donating Ardleigh Showground for the event as well as main sponsors Attwell Solicitors and all of the volunteers who helped on the day and everyone who took part in the event.”