RUNNERS young and old turned out in force today to take part in the first Jane Tomlinson Pennine Lancashire 10K.

Dull weather didn’t dampen the spirits as more than a thousand competitors took part in the biggest event of its kind in East Lancashire.

The race, which started at Witton Park, featured a mix of skilled and fun runners.

Running legend Ron Hill started the race with BBC Radio Lancashire presenter Graham Liver, former Hull City manager Iain Dowie, ex-Blackburn Rovers star Tony Parkes and Michelin star chef Nigel Haworth, who was celebrating his 52nd birthday.

The Jane Tomlinson Pennine Lancashire 10K is a Run For All event, set up by the late Jane Tomlinson and her family.

Race organiser Mike Tomlinson said: “Nearly 2,000 people entered the race which is a good turn out for the first in the region.

"We hope that if the hospices have found they have raised enough funds that we will be able to put it on again next year.”

The men’s winner was Lee Cook who finished in 35.46mins while the women’s winner was Gwen Kinloch who completed it in 42.11mins.

Iain Dowie finished in 46.41mins, Ron Hill finished in 53.58mins and Nigel Howarth in 1hr 10mins.

* Click here to see our gallery of dozens of photos from the event.

* Click here for our video of the event.

* In Tuesday's newspaper: full list of every runner and their times.