HUNDREDS of runners stepped out to support of a variety of good causes for a popular seaside fundraiser.

Craig Robinson

HUNDREDS of runners stepped out to support of a variety of good causes for a popular seaside fundraiser.

More than 600 people took part in the Rotary Club of Felixstowe's annual Bank Holiday Monday event.

Runners had an hour to complete as many laps of the one mile circuit as possible, starting and finishing at the town's Spa Pavilion.

The course took them along the promenade and then up Bent Hill, along Hamilton Gardens and Bath Hill before returning to the seafront.

Runners were encouraged to get sponsorship either for just taking part or on a per lap basis for their own chosen charity or good cause.

Over the last 29 years the event has raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity and this year the Rotarians were supporting the Woolverstone Project, which provides sailing opportunities and tuition for people with disabilities.

Ted Race, a member of the Rotary Club of Felixstowe, said it was an excellent day that everyone seemed to enjoy.

“It was on par with last year - the credit crunch hasn't really affected it,” he said. “The support we have is absolutely fabulous. The event has become a regular fixture on the Felixstowe calendar.

“We started in 1980 so will soon be getting into our 30th year. It's really gone from strength to strength.

“People who take part can do as many laps as they want. It's not a race. It's really all about raising money for charity.”

Mr Race said the fun run routinely raised around �4,000 for local charities.

“The main beneficiary this year will be the Woolverstone Project,” he added.

He said the clubs that took part - such as the local football teams - raised around �15,000 to �20,000 for themselves, which would be spent on refurbishments and buying equipment.