MONEY raised at this year's Redditch Fun Run is now ready to be dished out to a host of town charities.

Organisers of the third annual run held at Arrow Valley Countryside Centre said energetic residents turned out in force -- despite poor weather -- and raised a whopping £2,000 through entry fees alone.

Dave Wilkins, the man behind the event, said: "Considering the weather on the day, the amount we raised was quite staggering. I am really pleased."

This cash will now be handed out to six town causes including Carers Careline, the Primrose Hospice and Woodrow-based youth group What's Your Point.

The Craig Evans Appeal, which was launched through the Advertiser earlier this year, is also being given £100, while Hospital Radio Pulse and Christ Church in Matchborough will receive £150 each.

Hundreds of other worthwhile causes will also benefit from the events through participants' individual sponsorship money.

And tomorrow, a presentation will be made to youngsters at Ten Acres First School, which was the only school to enter a team into the event's Pupil Charity Challenge. They will receive a prize for their efforts from Staples, one of the event sponsors.

Mr Wilkins, a former Redditch police officer, said he is already busy preparing for next year's event and hopes it will raise even more cash for good causes.

"I really hope the Redditch community will make a real effort to take part next year to make sure these events continue to grow," he said.

For details on forthcoming fundraisers, visit www.arrow-community-events.org.uk or email acevents@yahoo.co.uk