In pictures: Sun shines on runners at 12th Grantchester Charity Runs

Conditions were perfect for the 12th annual Grantchester Charity Runs – supported by the Cambridge Independent and sponsored by Bidwells – last Sunday (September 25) as more than 330 runners set off to run 10k or 3k in glorious September sunshine.

The 10k was dominated by William Watkins from the get-go as he completed the course in 35:13, the event’s second fastest time ever. He was chased home by Luke Ashby and Alessandro Borraccino.

The first woman home was Natasha Michael, who improved on her third place last year to lead the way, with Ellie Saggers and Sophie Jones in next.

Turning to the 3k, Craig Calver knocked over 20 seconds off his 2021 time to cross the line ahead of the van Gael brothers, Noah and Jasper. Natalie Pannell and Karen Grapes were the fastest women, but special mention should be made to Katy Hinshelwood, who chased them home more than 30 seconds faster than her 2021 time.

The proceeds will be donated to the event’s two charities, Maggie’s Centre Cambridge and Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT). Christie Marrian and Justin Fairhall, on behalf of the event’s organisers, said: “It was great to see so many smiling faces around the Grantchester Charity Runs but we are sure there were more determined expressions out on the courses.

“We were extremely pleased with the turnout and the initial feedback has been gratifying. Working with our new sponsors Bidwells and our charities Maggie’s and ACT was a real pleasure. Their enthusiasm was palpable and ensured the smooth running of the day as well as overcoming the inevitable snafus.

“Our 10k and 3k winners really tore up the course, so congratulations to them and congratulations to everyone who participated whatever their time.”

[Read more: Grantchester Charity Runs presents proceeds to Addenbrooke’s Charity Trust and Maggie’s]

The runs are due to return on Sunday, September 24, 2023. For more information, go to grantchester10k.org.