RUNNERS have gone green this year after swapping plastic water bottles for recyclable cups during a popular annual fun run held in Chippenham.

Chippenham Harriers embraced the change from bottles to recyclable cups to support a move away from plastic at sporting events.

Record numbers took part in the family friendly race day held at Chippenham Rugby Club with 377 runners ranging from beginners who jogged the countryside route to athletes competing at county level.

Organiser Sam Neale 39, of Pewsham, said: “We tried to be a green as possible this year and so all the cups used for water were recyclable.

“Running has become a lot more popular in recent years and I think that is partly because it is a lot more inclusive now.

“We hold this event to raise some money but also as a way to get people into running and families to take part and have fun together.”

“I got involved with running through my wife. I took part in sports in the past but had become inactive, so I decided to take up running.

“We decided to do a half marathon together in Bath not thinking I would ever run again, but now I have been involved with the Harriers for several years.”

Helped by 50 marshals on the day, runners were split into age categories, with under sevens running half a mile, under17s one mile and all adults racing against the clock over five miles.

First time organiser Mr Neale recently completed the London Marathon in four hours 23minutes and added: “I used advice from other people but also my experiences having run events in the past and especially the London Marathon because it was so hot. It was a fantastic day but it was certainly challenging because of the heat.

"I am proud that it was my first race and I will certainly do more in the future.”

Over £200 was raised for Diabetes UK following the family fun run. Sponsors Norman E Webb and Drain Wizards were thanked for their support.