THE Studland Stampede raced across beach, heath and countryside as the popular 12k off-road run challenged its 422 starters.

A strong east wind and a high tide meant the start had to be diverted from Knoll Beach in the 11th year of the race.

In pictures: see all our photos of the Studland Stampede in a gallery 

"It went very well. It was really good," said organiser Julie Ford after all but a couple of runners made it to the finish line back on the beach.

With the route taking the Stampeders across heathland and around the sandstone Agglestone Rock before returning around the headland by the chain ferry and along the beach, the varying terrain provides a real work out for participants.

"There is a nice bit of soft sand which is always a pain at that stage of the run," said Julie. Runners also had to deal with everything from muddy puddles to cattle and jelly fish on the beach.

Despite the arduous nature of the tough race, its popularity meant that places were filled up in May for the October run.

Winner Andrew Ridley from Poole Runners completed it in 46:56 while first woman home, Heidi Tragenza from Bournemouth AC had a time of 54:54. Average time for the run was 1:11.02.

"The National Trust were brilliant," said Julie. "They were trying to clear seaweed from the beach and they put sand on the slipway."

After the race skies cleared and the sun came out and some of the contestants celebrated with a paddle in the sea.

A number of local businesses supported the event including Dorset Flapjack, Cotswold Outdoor, Jurassic Water, Piddle Beer, Purbeck Ice Cream and Water-to-Go as well as the National Trust.

The run is part of The Purbeck Trail Series and plans are well in hand for next year's Studland Stampede which takes place on October 16.