HUNDREDS of runners donned bright tutus, glow bands, wigs and even fairy lights for a colourful charity event in Poole at the weekend.

The second annual Dorset Neon Run took place in Poole Park on Saturday evening.

The 5k run, organised by disability charity Diverse Abilities, saw runners take part in a clubbercise warm-up before the race got underway at 9.30pm.

Jenny Pearce, communications manager at Diverse Abilities, said: “It was brilliant, a really great event, about 400 people took part which is more than last year.

“Last year we had 350.

“Hopefully it will just continue to grow. The atmosphere was brilliant with people dressed in tutus and even Christmas tree lights.

Despite a dramatic thunderstorm occurring on the same night, the lightning only helped to add to the spirit of the event.

Jenny said: “The weather didn’t dampen anyone’s fun. The thunderstorm added to the atmosphere. It made it more fun.”

“We raised £10,000 and there are still donations coming in through offline donations.”

First place went to Finlay Rudd, followed by Jason Sherman in second place with Massimo Lawson coming in third.

Jenny said: “I think it will be a regular one for the charity as it’s something everyone can take part in. People can run, walk, jog or even dance. It’s just for fun.

“Some people try to beat their times but it’s a family event that everyone can take part in.

“The youngest person was 12 and then we had older people take part.”

All participants receive a Dorset Neon Run t-shirt, glow sticks, bracelets and neon paint.

However, some runners take dressing up one step further.

Jenny added: “Everyone can just go crazy.

“We had people in tutus, glow bands, paint, illuminous wigs, fairy lights and Christmas lights.”

A Neon Run will also be held in Weymouth on Saturday, September 8.

Last year’s events raised £25,000 for Diverse Abilities which helps children and adults living with disabilities in Dorset.