A RECORD number of runners took part in a series of charity events around Cholsey last weekend, raising around £5,000 towards building a new eco school in the village.

The fifth Treehouse School Charity Run - which comprises a 10km, five km and family bunny race - was organised by Friends of the Treehouse School, an alternative, non-fee paying independent primary based in Cholsey.

The funds will double the capacity of the school from 15 to 30.

Organisers say this year’s event had the largest field yet, of over 500 runners.

Treehouse School headteacher Lee Ryman, said: “It was a fantastic event, with over 400 people taking part - the highest number of adult and child competitors ever.

Mr Ryman, who also founded the event, added: “My thanks to all the volunteers who came along to help and to everyone who ran. We can’t wait to do it all again next year.”

Alexander Miller won the 10km, in a time of 34:04.

Jane Copland came home first in the women’s section.

In the five km, William Lord and Amy Rowland – who just held off Lisa Hogger - won the men’s and women’s sections respectively.

Both events were run on a mix of quiet roads, farm tracks and footpaths.

The 1km Bunny Run, which even featured a runner dressed in a full body storm trooper outfit, was open to families and children under 16, on the local recreation ground.

Family runners each received a wooden medal showing the distance that they achieved.