MORE than a thousand people donned their running shoes and tackled scorching heat to take part in this year's Ellesmere 10k run.

Runners from far and wide gathered at the Lakelands Academy in Oswestry Road on Sunday morning for the annual 10k run, with 120 children also taking part in a 2k fun run.

The event – which this year saw a record amount of runners – was started 10 years ago by Paul Davies from Ellesmere and has grown year on year, with people travelling from as far as Plymouth to participate.

Paul, who works at Royal Mail alongside organising the popular event, wished everybody good luck before the race and spoke of plans for next year.

"We've had a better turnout this year, even though it's going to be a hot one," he said.

"I started the run because I am a runner myself and I wanted to bring something to the town.

"As of 2020,the Ellesmere 10k will be known as the Lion Quays Ellesmere 10k as they will be taking over the sponsorship.

"I wish everyone taking part, good luck."

One person taking part was Tim Evans from Oswestry who was running his second 10k, and his first Ellesmere 10k for the Vegan Runners.

"I'm running this to raise awareness really. I'm just letting people know that vegans can be fit and healthy!" he said.

Meanwhile; in the children's 2k, 10-year-old twins Tom and Beth Johnson, recovered from their run with a bit of healthy competition.

"It's my first 2k in Ellesmere but not my first run," Tom said.

"I thought it was good. I beat Beth and I want to do another now."

And Beth added: "It was harder than normal because it's hot."

There to cheer the pair on was dad Stewart who had already tackled the Chirk 10k earlier in the morning.

"They've done brilliant," he said.

"A big thanks to their school Criftins CofE School and Cockshutt CofE School who have joined forces to volunteer as marshals for the run."