THOUSANDS of runners packed city streets for what organisers have called the 'most successful' Town and Gown race in the event's history.

The 36th charity run, which started and ended at University Parks, Oxford, raises funds for Muscular Dystrophy UK, a charity which fights and funds research into the muscle-wasting condition.

Some 4,400 runners lined up for the 10km race which kicked off at 10am today. Organisers said they expected to have raised a record amount for the charity, with runners bringing in excess of £150,000.

Emma Jones-Parry, head of events at the charity said: "This has been another great year in Oxford. We saw record levels of runners who were all in great spirits, especially as the sun was shining throughout.

"A huge thank you goes to every single person who contributed in any way to make this event possible – from spectators to marshals, local businesses, and, of course, the runners. We couldn't do it without them all."

The fastest runner on the day was Abingdon AC member Paul Fernandez, 43, who crossed the finish line with a time of 31m36s.

Mr Fernandez, a teacher at Radley College, said that his time had set a course record as this year's run followed a new route.

He said: “I am very pleased with the time. This race is a good run. The crowd was fantastic and its good when you are running where everyone can shout and cheer.

“It is a really nice atmosphere and I like running this race.”

Aine Lyng, who previously worked in an admin role at the John Radcliffe Hospital, but who now lives in her native Ireland, said the event's setting among the city's historic architecture was unique and what made it so special.

The 29-year old said: “Nothing beats running the streets of Oxford. It’s a brilliant race and I was really happy to have got under the 40 minute mark with a time of 39m20s, so I am really pleased.

“It’s a great event with so much support and it is such a good cause to be a part of.”

Among the many racers that took part was a group of four 999 call handlers who are based at Kidlington’s Thames Valley Police headquarters.

The group, wearing sombreros and ukuleles, managed a time of 1hr5.

Group member Karl Roberts, 23, said: “We thought we would have a bit of fun and it was also a good opportunity to raise a bit of money.

“We are pretty happy with our time as it was a group effort.

“The orange theme is to represent muscular dystrophy and we thought it would be a good idea to dress up for it too.”

Hundreds of school pupils, racing groups and fellow charities all took part in the race.

And there was even some celebrity endorsement with TV presenter Alex Polizzi, known for her role as The Hotel Inspector on Channel 5, donning running shoes and taking on the challenge.

She said: “It is really important and it shows just how many people care and there’s a lot of support here too.”

For further information on the work of the charity and to donate visit musculardystrophyuk.org