THOUSANDS of people spent a day in the sunshine at the annual Romsey Relay Marathon.

More than 170 teams undertook the run on May 12 at Broadlands Estate.

The run was organised by Romsey Rotary Club and the housing developer Barret Homes sponsored the event for the fourth year.

Adrian Pearce, 48, who works for Barret Homes was running in aid of the company’s chosen charity Wessex Cancer Trust.

He said: “This is the first Romsey relay marathon I have done.

“It’s such a beautiful day and a great event.

“Wessex Cancer Trust are a fantastic cause and I know several members of staff who have been affected by cancer so it is nice to do something to give back.”

Sarah Celik, 41 from Southampton who was running for Bootcamp UK Southampton and Lucrozier Fitness said: "It's such a good atmosphere and a lovely sunny day.

"This is my first time taking part and I'm a little bit nervous.

"I haven't been training for long, but it's just a bit of fun."

Tony Forward, who is on the organising committee for the event said that the event has “grown over the years.”

The event, when it first started in 2013, had just 32 teams.

He said: “It’s become a family day out as we have face painting and a clown to entertain the children.”

Tony described the event as “a highlight of the year.”

He said: “It’s a lot of fun for those taking part and it is a good team building exercise.

“People really enjoy it and it takes place at a lovely setting.

“It’s not like running a full marathon it is good fun.”

Event organiser, Charlie Daniel-Hobbs said: "The Relay Marathon is not only a race, but a major fundraising opportunity, a sound team building exercise and a family day out in a beautiful setting.

“Most importantly, it brings the whole community together to not only raise funds, but also awareness of various charities serving Hampshire.”

For more information about the Romsey Relay Marathon contact info@romseymarathon.co.uk.