When runners got powdered with paint for Helen and Douglas House

The explosion of colour saw hundreds of people young and old crossing the finish line at the Rainbow Run in Cutteslowe Park on Saturday.

The Helen and Douglas House Colour Run in 2017

Families were showered in powdered paint as they completed the 3km fun run to raise cash for the hospice, which cares for terminally-ill children and young adults.

Read again: Woman's 10k dentist's bill

It was hoped thousands of pounds would be raised for the Headington-based charity, after about 750 people took part at the time.

Hannah Barrett, events manager for Helen and Douglas House, said the run, then in its fourth year, was ‘absolutely fantastic’.

She said at the time: “It was really well supported by members of the public, family and friends of the hospice as well.

“It was lovely to see so many take part. It was nice and warm and sunny, too.

Read more: Man abused woman for five years court is told

“The run is absolutely crucial as each year we have to raise £5.5m for the hospice to continue. Events like this are a fundamental part of our fundraising through sponsorship.”

A youngster joins in the colour run at Cutteslowe Park

Participants ran through the North Oxford park, with some pushing wheelchairs and buggies across the course.

Ms Barrett said the hospice had asked for every participant to bring in a minimum of £30 in sponsorship money.

The events manager thanked staff and volunteers from the charity, adding: ‘Without our volunteers supporting us now and beforehand we could not do the job. I also give a big thank-you to all the staff as well.”

Read more: Residents row over lockdown dogwalking rules

Sonia Francis completed the course with nine-year-old daughter Anoushka.

Youngsters join in the paint fun at the Colour Run

Mrs Francis said: “It’s brilliant fun. We hope to do it next year.”