HUNDREDS of runners have crossed the finish line in this year's OX5 run at Blenheim Palace.

The charity five-mile challenge in Woodstock is expected to be the biggest ever, with 1,450 people signed up to raise money for Oxford Children’s Hospital.

The run, which started at 10.30am, is the hospital’s biggest annual fundraiser.

This year is the 12th run, organised by the Oxford Mail and sponsored by recruitment consultants Allen Associates.

  • VIDEO: A good luck message from Prime Minister David Cameron and Oxford Children's Hospital patients Zac and Finlay

Last year’s run raised a record-breaking £98,000 for new equipment, machinery and toys.

A total of 959 runners crossed the finish line.

  • VIDEO: Runners warm-up at the start of this year's OX5 run

Children’s hospital spokeswoman Sarah Vaccari said: "It has brought a tear to my eye to see so many people here today giving up their Mother's Day lie-ins to run for the Oxford Children’s Hospital.

“There are so many stories of courage hope and bravery here today.

"We cannot thank the Oxfordshire community enough for their support for the Oxford Children’s Hospital.

"Those taking part — many of whom are parents who have children treated at the hospital — have been training through a very wet and windy winter."