VIDEO: Hundreds pound the city’s streets in the Wakefield Hospice 10k

More than 1800 people took part in the 20th annual Wakefield 10k and 1k mini run at Thornes Park this morning (Sunday).

Outwood and Morley MP Ed Balls started the event on Lawefield Lane, as well as participating in the race himself.

Ben Marriott, of Bingley Harriers, was the first competitor to cross the finish line.

He said: “I’m chuffed to bits to win. It was a good run but difficult to get going at first.

“The last 1k was really tough but the support from the crowd was absolutely brilliant.”

And Brodie Ashton, ten, of Wakefield Harriers, came first in the 1k mini run.

Her mum, Kim Ashton, said: “I’m so proud of her. She won the 2k at the European Championships in Thornes Park a couple of weeks ago too.”

The hospice is expecting to raise at least £50,000 from the event which is sponsored by Richard Kendall Estate Agents.

Danielle Norman, event organiser, said: “We’re amazed that so many people took part in the race this morning. It’s the biggest ever turn out.

“We were expecting more than 2,000 but I think the weather put a few people off.

“It is great to see so many people supporting Wakefield Hospice and helping us raise vital funds.

“A huge thank you to everyone who took part and our volunteers for making it possible.”

To donate text TENK15 plus the amount to 70070.