THERE wasn’t a cloud in sight as more than 1,600 runners took their place on the start line for the Asda Foundation Burnley 10K.

Keen runners from across East Lancashire descended on Burnley’s Towneley Park for the fourth annual charity fun run organised by the Jane Tomlinson Run for All organisation.

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The 10K course, formerly known as the Pennine Lancashire 10K, not only had a new name but new route with runners starting and finishing the course in Towneley Park.

The first person to complete yesterday’s course was Burnley’s Matthew Lalor, from Rosegrove, who completed the course in 34 minutes and 14 seconds.

Sharon Lambert, 45, from Cliviger, ran the 10k for fun to improve her fitness after giving birth to her daughter, Scarlett, seven months ago.

She said: “I just wanted to get back into being fit and active and training for this was the perfect way.”

Her friend, Debbie Whittaker, 46, from Tockholes, said: “I have been doing the couch to 5k and have never been into running.

“It’s been great exercise for me. I wouldn’t have minded if it was a bit cooler because I prefer running in the rain.”

Alex Cowie, 28, from Burnley, ran with his Fitness Experience team for Pendleside Hospice. He said: “It has been a fantastic day out for us.

“We have been training long and hard for this and it has all paid off.”

Paul Gardner, 51, who lives in Rossendale, ran for the Stroke Association, said: “The turnout has been brilliant there was so many people there.”

Hope Stevens, 24, from Colne said: “I’ve ran for the Pendleside Hospice because they do absolutely fantastic work for so many people and deserve a ll the money they raise.”

Cameron Bishop, 51, from Bacup was running to raise money for Cancer Research, said: “A family member of mine has suffered from cancer and I wanted to run it for them.”

Hundreds of supporters basked in the sun while cheering on the participants, with many enjoying the bouncy castles, food stalls and charity tents.

The events namesake Jayne Tomlinson died in 2007 after a long battle with breast cancer.

The 43-year-old raised money for cancer charities by taking part in a series of sporting challenges, including the Great North Run, London Marathon and the Ironman UK Triathlon, after being given six months to live by doctors.

She was appointed CBE for charitable services shortly before her death.

Mrs Tomlinson’s husband, Mike, who set up the appeal in her name, said: “The turnout today has been brilliant."

“The aim of the run is to raise money for charities in East Lancashire and help people who need it in East Lancashire.

“It has definitely had more of a relaxed feel today because it was held in the park.

“The weather has been cracking as well which makes the day all the better.”