FOUR hundred and three runners braved wet and windy conditions for the first parkrun at Moors Valley County Park, making it among the top inaugural events.

"It was absolutely fantastic," said "soaked and buzzing" event director Chris Archibold.

"For 400-plus runners to turn out in weather like this is absolutely outstanding."

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Runners from ages eight to 80 took part in the free 5k run which followed a circular route of forest trails and lakeside paths. They converged on the park from as far as Reading and Basingstoke for the 9am Saturday start, some with dogs and others with buggies.

The race was won by Poole AC runner Andrew Ridley in a time of 17minutes 14seconds and the first woman home was Sarah Winstone from Lordshill Road Runners in 20minutes 53seconds.

"I can imagine that course in the middle of the summer going to have more than 600 runners turning up," said Chris.

"Moors Valley is the perfect venue for parkrun," he said. "It offers the most idyllic setting with stunning views and a route that does not double back on itself."

Open to people of all ages, abilities and experience, the weekly community parkruns are organised entirely by volunteers and Chris was full of praise for his core team of seven people who got the event up and running in 12 months.

Similar runs have gone from strength to strength in Poole, Bournemouth, Blandford and Brockenhurst among more than 350 across the UK.

Runners simply register online in advance and the only stipulations are that children under 11 should be accompanied by an adult and dogs are limited to one per runner and must be kept on a lead.

Clare Gronow, team leader at Moors Valley Country Park said: "Experience from other parkruns show that they quickly develop their own community and we are looking forward to the weekly runs becoming an integral part of the Moors Valley calendar."

For those interested in taking part but don't feel ready for the 5k challenge, Moors Valley will be holding beginners courses in the new year.

For more information go to parkrun.org.uk/moorsvalley.