ON A beautiful Sunday, September morning, 61 runners of all ages, from many parts of the country converged on Lapford to take part in the Bridget Dohoo Memorial Challenge.

Runners from as far as Lancashire, Warwickshire and Essex and more local areas such as Lapford, Bideford and South Molton, were among those who took part.

The weather was ideal for running, the sun staying hidden behind low cloud and there was a gentle breeze to cool the sweating brow.

First home was Michael Lesniak who completed the three-mile run in 16 minutes, 37 seconds.

The first lady runner, in at 23 minutes, 21 seconds, was Jenny Lynch.

In the 9.6 mile run it was Paul Cooke, a member of South Molton Strugglers, who was first home in just over the hour mark.

The first lady in this group was Elaine Fields, also of South Molton Strugglers, at one hour, 16 minutes.

The prizes were presented by Arthur Leach and Pauline Leach, the late Bridget Dohoo's parents.

A fun children's race also saw many young people take part.

The event was arranged to raise much-needed funds for local Hospices.

More than 175 bacon sandwiches were sold, along with numerous cakes and countless cups of tea. The raffle and mini auction were a great success.

Ray Dohoo said: "What a great success it was.

"Thank you to all those who took part, the sponsors and those who donated the prizes.

"Thanks also to Chris Murrin and the happy band of runners at South Molton Strugglers for all their help and assistance.

"Also to Andrew Leach for being the paymaster and having to go through all the small change, Donna Leach and Caroline Noon for all of the organisation that went into the event and Darren Crump for organising the children's race.

"There are many unsung hero's who helped throughout the last few months in organising this event and on the day. Thank you to you all.

"Also a big thanks to Andrew Drayton, community champion at Crediton Tesco for the water and the flowers and for coming out to help us on the day."