THE FIRST Savernake fun run raised £2,600 for St Katharine’s School appeal to build a new classroom for Year 6 pupils.

After almost 300 runners took part, organiser Laura Bone, a St Katherine’s parents, said it could become an annual event.

Mrs Bone said: “What a day. Everything came together beautifully. The rain held off and the cake, bacon rolls, burgers and ice creams went down a storm with the runners and supporters alike. We’ve managed to raise a fantastic amount for the school and we’ll soon start planning for 2017. We hope to see even more people next year, so dig out your trainers and join us for what we hope will be a fantastic annual event.”

The £2,600 means the school has reached its fundraising target for the much needed fourth classroom, and work can take place over the holidays.

Nicky Jones, head of St Katherine’s, said: “It was a really important pot of money to get. We are very excited about having the extra classroom, it has been badly needed as the Year 6 children have had to have lessons in the school hall which has caused some disruptions. It is great that the teachers and the children will come back after the summer and have their own space.”

Runners tackled 10k and 3k races, with everyone commenting on how picturesque the route was.

Henrietta Mackinnon, the first woman over the 10k line in 45:25, said: “This was definitely the friendliest and most fabulously organised 10k race I’ve done, and all through the beautiful Savernake Forest.

"It was well marshalled, well signed and the water and jelly baby stops were brilliant. This is definitely one for my running calendar. Bring on 2017.”

In the junior 10k race the first over the line was a pupil from St Katherine’s, Sam Ineson, who finished in 54:54.

Mrs Jones added: “The feedback was lovely and the atmosphere was just wonderful. Laura has mentioned it may be something we can do again, but maybe grow it next time. It was a very nice surprise at how many took part.”