DEVIZES MP Claire Perry fired the starting pistol to get nearly 300 runners underway from the town's football club on Sunday morning.

Mrs Perry became the official starter after she read the inspiring story of race organiser Damion Godwin who got his life back on track after the tragic death of his baby son.

She wrote to Mr Godwin to congratulate him on his running success and his new commitment to the community as captain of Devizes Running Club. He took the opportunity to ask her to be the official starter of the race.

His story also helped to attract far more runners than last year when around 100 people took part.

Club publicity officer Nicola Gee said: "Lots of our members volunteered to be marshals and people came from quite a wider area to take part. There were people of all standards from the serious club runners to the fun runners.

"The club is doing very well with lots of beginners contacting us about our sofa to 5k courses."

Mr Godwin said: "It was an amazing day. I had to give a speech at the end which is something I would never have been able to do before I took up running. My self-confidence is so much better now."

Michael Towler from Avon Valley was first home in a time of 34mins.21.5 secs followed by junior runner Harry Palmer is 35mins 7.2 seconds and veteran Nick Awbery from Marlborough Running Club in 36mins 8.2 seconds.

Avon Valley also took the women's title when Ruth Barnes crossed the line in 37mins 37.2 secs.

Last home was Victoria Lane from Swindon Shin Splints but she was delighted with her time of 1 hour 27mins 18.8 secs as this was 12 minutes faster than her run last year.