Businessmen and women took to the streets of Chelmsford for the 15th annual Race4Business, organised by regional law firm Birketts.

Teams and individuals from businesses across Essex and beyond followed a 3.5 mile course around the town centre, with the race being officially started by former England and Essex cricketer Ronnie Irani, now a presenter on talkSPORT radio.

The men’s race was won by John Scaife of Wincer Kievenaar LLP, with Nick Wetheridge of NatWest second and Kieran Manning of ClearView Communications third. In the women’s race, first place went to Samantha Bilbie, with Jessica Pilgrim and Julie Beasant, both from Another Level Medispa, second and third respectively.

First place in the team event went to M&G Investments, with Wincer Kievenaar second and the ClearView Harriers third. The fancy dress prize went to the team from TTC Language Services, who ran as super heroes.

Over the past 14 years, the Race4Business has raised more than £400,000 for good causes. This year’s beneficiary will be Essex charity SNAP (Special Needs and Parents).

Birketts consultant and event founder Richard Wollaston, who ran in the race himself, said: “I’m delighted that the Essex business community continues to support this event. I’d like to thank everyone involved, in particular the participants, who have raised essential funds for SNAP to continue to provide essential support for Essex families with children and young people who have special needs and disabilities.”

The prizes for the fastest teams and individuals were presented by Birketts’ recently appointed chief executive, Jonathan Agar.