Running into a blast of colour

ON your marks . . . participants warm up with a bit of zumba before their run

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RUNNERS at Alexandra Park had a blast on Sunday... a colour blast!

The normally tranquil park was covered in bright colours for the Dr Kershaw’s Colour Blast fun run.

The hospice joined Revolution 96.2 radio to hold the unique event, which saw almost 1,000 runners blasted in reds, blues, greens, yellows and oranges for the 3km dash around the park as they were cheered on by scores of spectators who enjoyed both the entertainment and the sunshine.

Russ Chew (53), a sales manager from Shaw, was first across the finish line: “It was brilliant,” he said. “I really enjoyed it. It was hot but great fun. I would definitely do it again.”

Jessica Thornton (22), from Watersheddings, was the first woman to finish: “It was fantastic. It’s the first run I’ve done. I’m not sure if I’ll do it again!”

Derker lad Jack Crookendale, who studies at the new GM college on Rochdale Road, was the first junior to cross the finish line.

Lisa Pearson, fund-raising manager at the hospice, will find out nexct week how much the hospice has raised.

She said: “Thank goodness we had nice weather! That made a big difference. Everybody was smiling. It’s been a most incredible community event.”