KEEN competitors took scorching sunshine in their stride as they tackled the Sudbury Fun Run for charity.

A total of 450 runners pounded their way along the five-mile course around Sudbury and through Great Cornard, to cross the finishing line in Sudbury’s Belle Vue Park yesterday.

The runners and 270 walkers all put their best feet forward under hot sun and clear blue skies to complete the annual challenge.

Jonathan Price, the event organiser, said: “It was a good day. It is a good opportunity for people to get out, raise some money and have fun.”

Superheroes jostled alongside firemen and footballers to take part in the event, which raised money for the children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent and the Eden Rose Coppice project.

Starting off along Great Eastern Road, competitors were cheered by supporters as they ran a loop around Sudbury town centre before heading through Blackhouse Lane in Great Cornard, along Shawlands Avenue then down Newton Road to finally reach the home straight in the park.

As temperatures hit 24C (75F) competitors welcomed the chance to cool off with water which was provided on the day by Waitrose.

“It was hot,” Mr Price said. “I think the heat took its toll. People certainly appreciated the water.”

The fastest man on the day was John Oakes from Cambridge and Coleridge Athletics Club, who completed the course in 28 minutes and 14 seconds.

The fastest woman was Odette Robson, who made it to the finish line in 31 minutes and 33 seconds.

But whether they ran, sprinted or walked around the route, many competitors were able to soak up the atmosphere and put some fun in their run.

“People really enjoy doing it,” Mr Price said. “It is supposed to be fun.

“The costumes make it a special occasion as well.”

Places for the popular event were filled early this year, with entries being closed well before race day.

As intrepid runners took part in the London Marathon last weekend, Mr Price said many people had been inspired by their efforts.

“Places filled up very early this year and people have been preparing properly,” he said.

“The run is as popular as ever.”