HUNDREDS of Lycra-clad runners put their best foot forward as they took part in this year’s East Lancashire Hospice 10K.

The fifth annual event, viewed as the first race of the season by many local clubs, started from Gaskell Motor Bodies in Great Harwood on Sunday.

The race took a circular route and followed cycle tracks, the old railway, Cutwood Park and back along the Leeds to Liverpool canal tow path.

This year saw about 600 participants from across the county take part in the adult, junior and 2k fun run categories.

Danny Collinge, from Clayton-le-Moors Harriers, set a new course record of 33 minutes and 50 seconds, and Sarah Ridehalgh, of Accrington Road Runners, in a time of 41.21.

The junior race was won by Harry Wilkin, from Blackburn Harriers, in a time of 8.51 and Helana White, from Clayton-Le-Moors Harriers, in a time of 9.24.

Spectators also felt the force, with a number of volunteers from 99th Garrison dressed as Star Wars characters, who helped out on the day.

Race organiser Nick Gaskell, owner of the business, has supported the hospice for about eight years.

He said: “This year’s race has been brilliant.

"Each year it becomes more and more popular and is often used as a training run by a number of clubs at the start of the season. We hope the event is still running in 30 years.”

The event, hosted by Gaskell Motor Bodies, has raised £49,804 for East Lancashire Hospice over the past four years.