MORE than 600 people took part in Felixstowe’s annual May Day fun run, raising thousands of pounds for charity.

The event had a Royal wedding fancy dress theme but while there were a few princes and princesses among the throng, most people had their own ideas – with colourful characters ranging from Disney creations to an out-of-season Father Christmas.

Conditions were perfect for running with the seafront bathed in sunshine but temperatures not too hot and a cool wind whipping off the sea.

Entrants of all ages were sent off in three batches a few minutes apart from outside the Spa Pavilion, with the target to run as many laps of the mile-long course as they could in an hour.

People paid an entrance fee to the organisers, the Rotary Club of Felixstowe, raising about �2,500 for charities supported by the rotarians at home and abroad.

They then sought sponsorship from friends, family and work colleagues for causes dear to their heart, raising several thousand pounds more.

Rotary club president Andrew Slater said the day had gone exceptionally well.

“We are very pleased indeed – the weather has been perfect for running and the 620 entrants was up on last year,” he said.

“Everything has gone very smoothly and the money raised – both for our own charities and the many different ones supported by the entrants – will hopefully make a real difference.”

The Rotary club’s main beneficiary would be Positive Pals, a new self-help support group for sufferers of ME and fibromyalgia.