HUNDREDS of people descended on Ellesmere for the annual Shropshire Triathlon last week.

More than 600 people from all around the country took part in the event on Sunday, which saw competitors swimming, cycling and running their way to the finish line.

The athletes were able to compete in either the Middle Distance event which included a 2,000m swim, 78k cycle and 20k run; the Olympic and Relay event with its 1,500m swim, 39k cycle and 10k run; or the Sprint and Relay which featured a 750m swim, 22k cycle and 5k run.

Keith Hancock, race director for UK Triathlon Events was delighted with the turnout and praised the 'picturesque' setting.

"The event was really well attended with about 600 taking part from over the UK," he said.

"There were quite a few local people taking part too, with the person who won the male sprint race being from Ellesmere.

"The venue is a great setting for a triathlon, it's very picturesque and the weather was absolutely perfect, sunny and no wind.

"We organise 21 events around the country and this one was the best one of the season."

He also thanked volunteers and locals for their help in running the popular event.

"A big thank you to all the volunteers, local man Bob McBride does a fantastic job in making sure we have ample marshals to cover the course, each and every one of them are very supportive as well as encouraging all the competitors," he added.

"It is great to see so many local people coming out to support the event, making it a great atmosphere."