A POPULAR Colchester race raised tens of thousands of pounds in aid of a life-saving charity. 

The Colchester Half Marathon saw more than 2,500 runners of all abilities take on a 13.1 mile route around the city on March 17. 

The iconic race raised £55,347 for the Robin Cancer Trust, as well as thousands of pounds for many other charities and organisations. 

As one of the flagship events in the city’s calendar, the annual race was organised by the trust with the support of the Running Colchester community, with all the proceeds helping to fund the charity’s important education and support programmes for young people affected by germ cell cancer. 

Gazette: Race - Runners defied the rainy weather during the Colchester Half Marathon on SundayRace - Runners defied the rainy weather during the Colchester Half Marathon on Sunday (Image: Simon Rich Photography)

Toby Freeman, founder and CEO of The Robin Cancer Trust, said: "We're so proud to have raised £55,000 that will help fund our life-saving cancer awareness, education, and support programmes for young people in the community. 

“What an incredible legacy for our half-marathon. 

“It's a monumental task delivering this event - so our heartfelt thanks goes out to all our sponsors, partners, team members, volunteers, and runners who make it all happen. 

Gazette:

“We can't wait to see what we can achieve together in 2025." 

This year's event saw Alex Gladley from the Windsor Slough Eton & Hounslow Athletic Club set a new record, finishing the course after one hour, seven minutes and 44 seconds. 

Carolyn Hay from Mansfield Harriers was the fasted female, finishing in one hour, 25 minutes and 59 seconds. 

Entries for next year’s event taking place on March 16 are already open.