BIG-hearted runners raised more than £5,000 when they took to the road for a group which helps bereaved children.

Bramble's Trust members were delighted when a field of more than 400 turned up for its second 10k road race and fun run, organised by Kidderminster and Stourport Athletic Club and backed by the Shuttle/Times and News.

The proceeds from the September event came from entry fees and runners' personal sponsorship.

The race has become a major annual booster for the charity after last year's inaugural event also banked £5,000.

And the charity has decided to help other youngsters by giving £200 from this year's total to the Ray Mercer Sporting Foundation, run by the Shuttle/Times and News to provide cash backing to young sportsmen and women in Wyre Forest.

Eileen Vaux, Bramble's fund-raising chairman, said: "We had tremendous support from the public, which we very much appreciate.

"It is wonderful that people support us to enable us to carry on running camps for bereaved children and their families at the Frank Chapman Centre in Bewdley."

She added: "We are hoping to reach £7,000 at next year's run - that would be wonderful.

"The trust is always looking for volunteers to help us with our work."

Those who are interested to help should ring the charity on 01299 402322.