THOUSANDS of people flocked to Worcester today for the City Run.

Around 4,300 runners took part in the Worcester City Half Marathon, 10K and Young Athletes Run, organised in a partnership between Worcester City Council and Events of the North.

With the sun shining, course records were broken and the runners were cheered on by big crowds who lined the streets of Worcester.

The winner of the men's half marathon was Omer Ahmad of Birchfield Harriers in a time of 63 minutes and 29 seconds, breaking the course record by over six minutes. While the woman's race was won by Julia Bijl of London Heathside in 80:14.

In the 10k, the women's winner was Sophie Booth of the Black Pear Joggers in 37:54, while the men's race was won by Simon Birch of Hinckley Running Club in 32:03.

In the Young Athletes Run, for under 11s, Arlo Williams of Worcester AC was the first boy, in 7:04, while the first girl was Phoebe Martin in a time of 7:07.

Gary Cooper of Coventry AC won the wheelchair half marathon in 68:06.

Ed Grazier of Cheltenham Harriers retained his title in the 10k wheelchair race in 32:25.

Event founder Steve Cram said: “We attracted yet another record field for this year’s event and there was some fantastic running at the sharp end of each race.

“It’s always exciting to see a course record being set and Omar’s run in the half marathon was outstanding, particularly as he was on his own throughout the race. But just as brilliant was the sight of so many people raising money for charity and enjoying their runs around this beautiful city, yet again encouraged all the way by big crowds.

“Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of Worcester City Council, our headline sponsor Air Products, and our army of volunteers."

The Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Allah Ditta, added: “The Worcester City Run is always a really uplifting event, whether you’re taking part or cheering others on. New friendships are made, personal records are broken and the positive atmosphere is infectious.

“I’d like to thank everyone who’s worked so hard to bring this fantastic event to Worcester – once again it’s been an absolute triumph, with more people participating than ever before.”

Athletes from many leading clubs took part, while hundreds of runners raised money for good causes including the official charity partner, the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust.

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