RUNNERS enjoyed the picturesque surroundings of the Somerley Estate for a charity 10k on Sunday.

It was the 14th year the run has been held at the Ringwood site in aid of Autism Wessex, which provides specialist support for people with autism and their families in Dorset and neighbouring counties.

However, it was the first year the event has been held in the summer, with organisers hoping for better weather than they are used to in December.

Competitive runners joined amateurs and enthusiastic fundraisers in the 10k at 11am, while a 2k fun run was also held to encourage youngsters to get involved, with an array of stalls and other attractions on offer to entertain supporters.

Paul Reade, of Autism Wessex, said: “We were hoping that people could bring picnics and enjoy the live music but the weather wasn’t quite as kind as it could have been.

“But I think the runners enjoyed themselves anyway.

“The money we get from this, and from our other three fundraising runs, is vital to the charity.

“We use it to fund our advice line, to pay for specialist equipment at Portfield School and to kit out a new residence we are providing in New Milton for autistic adults.”

First place in the men’s race went to Toby Lambert, with a time of 33.54, while Caroline Rowley came first among the women with a time of 44.52.

Also among those taking part was New Forest MP Desmond Swayne.

Among the entertainments was live music from Southampton band The Fringe, and also from two of the charity’s Dorchester-based service users.

The double-act, known as Corky the Cat’s Fishbone, rehearse at the Autism Wessex Dorchester office.