Romsey Relay Marathon: More than £150,000 raised for charities

Organised by the Rotary Club of Romsey Test, the marathon is a unique community event held in the spring of each year, on the Broadlands Estate.

This year, it was held on May 21. 

A total of 176 charities, voluntary organisations and groups, all came together for the ninth relay marathon with more than 12 corporate sponsors making the day possible.

This year it was estimated that over £150,000 was raised for different charities.

The sun shone all day, creating some tough running conditions as temperatures rose to 20 degrees, but teams were all fully supported by their spectators who came to cheer for families, friends and loved ones.  

"We've had a great day out and the event is so accessible to everyone, no matter their age - young or retired," said one spectator.

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To end the event, as with previous years, children were invited to take to the track and complete one lap and for many, it was the end to a 26-day challenge which several schools had signed up to.

Tristan Pattison, who helped organise the event, said: "Children from local schools were challenged to run one mile every day for 26 days on the build up to this relay marathon and today was their final 1.3 miles to complete the challenge. We were so pleased to have so many children taking part and coming along to today's event and get their medal." 

Event organiser Charles Forward said: "We'd like to thank all our sponsors for supporting us on this fantastic event, it really would not be possible without your generosity. Our incredible volunteers from Rotary Club, the Scouts, and other community groups are key to bringing the event together, so huge thanks to all who helped. Sadly, there are too many to name individually. We are already looking forward to next year."

Keep in touch with the relay marathon at romseymarathon.co.uk.