IT wasn't quite the sunny Easter weekend run that Bournemouth athletes were hoping for.

But despite the blustery gales from Storm Katie as she battered the cliffs, scores of runners of various abilities gathered for the the 2016 Bournemouth East Cliff Rotary Club annual Easter Quarter Marathon and Fun Run.

This year the two nominated charities were the Lewis Manning Hospice in Poole and SMILE - which supports lone and bereaved parents.

Keith Loveless, race director, said: "It's a charity event and its about bringing the community together.

"We have been running it for about 19 years now and there are lots of people who have volunteered to help, including family and Rotarians.

"The youngest participants we have, in the fun run, are two five-year-olds, and the oldest is 76-years-old. It's mind-blowing."

Of those running was self-confessed 'recreational runner' Dily Ruffer.

She turned 60 last October and, as part of the celebrations, she decided to run 60 miles in four half marathons and one quarter marathon on consecutive weekends.

"I'm doing it to celebrate turning 60 because I can," she said, wearing the number 60 on her tabard.

"I have done four half marathons and this is my last one to make up my 60 miles.

"I'm raising money for the Bournemouth Hospital Charity for their Orchard Garden Project and I have raised just under £1,000 before gift aid. I'm hoping I can purchase a bench and a planter for the charity. Everyone who contributes can use the bench and appreciate the garden.

"I remember thinking last year this was a good idea," she added. "It's been quite diverse.

"I've been running 16 years but you learn from every race. It's all training for the next one. I don't think you ever finish training."

When asked if she was going to run 70 miles to celebrate her 70th she responded: "Not at this precise moment but never say never."