A perfect Spring day greeted over 1,100 runners at Blenheim Palace this weekend, all coming together in support of local children in hospital.

The Oxford Mail OX5 RUN, which is organised by Oxford Hospitals Charity and sponsored by Allen Associates is now in its 17^th year. The event raises funds to make a difference to children looked after by the Oxford Children’s Hospital, Horton Children’s Ward, Children’s Critical Care and all areas in our local hospitals where children receive treatment.

This year’s five mile event has already raised close to £130,000 and organisers hope it may break last year’s record of £150,000.

Many of the runners were families grateful for the care their children receive, with friends and colleagues showing their support too. Teams of hospital staff also took part alongside members of the Oxfordshire business community.

A special mention to our top fundraising teams Penny and Sinclair, Kamran's Fighters (pictured), Leafield Primary School and an amazing mum Claire Boulter, whose son is currently being treated at the hospital.

The event was won by Luke Grenfell-Shaw, who completed the route in 27m 09s, a few seconds faster than last year’s winner.

First woman across the line was Sarah Green in 34m 28s.

The overall Challenge Cup was won by the Blood Sweat and Tears team, with Ridge and Partners winning the Corporate Cup and Oxford Vaccine Group winning the Community Cup.

The event was won by Abingdon AC runner, Owen Stepney, who completed the route in 27m 26s.

Event Manager, Gail Williams said: ‘“It has been a privilege to work on an event which has been in the hearts and minds of patients, staff and supporters of the children's hospital for so many years.

And after all the hard work and planning it was wonderful to see everything come together on Sunday – and the sunshine was a real bonus!

This is a true community event with runners of all ages, backgrounds, shapes and sizes united in one thing – their affection for our amazing children’s hospital.

We are so proud of what everyone has already achieved and really excited about what the final total might be if all our runners keep fundraising for a few more days.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part, and of course to the Oxford Mail and Allen Associates for their incredible ongoing support. A special thank you too to the amazing George Martini for getting everyone warmed up and to Jack Fm for keeping the tunes pumping.”

Dr Taffy Makaya a Consultant, Paediatric Endocrinology took part in the run and raised over £1,000. She said.

Gail Williams, the event organiser from Oxford Hospitals Charity said:

“It has been a privilege to work on an event which has been in the hearts and minds of patients, staff and supporters of the children's hospital for so many years.

And after all the hard work and planning it was wonderful to see everything come together on Sunday – and the sunshine was a real bonus!

This is a true community event with runners of all ages, backgrounds, shapes and sizes united in one thing – their affection for our amazing children’s hospital.

We are so proud of what everyone has already achieved and really excited about what the final total might be if all our runners keep fundraising for a few more days.

All the photos from the day can be found on the Oxford Hospitals Charity Facebook page.

There is still time to donate to the hospital on behalf of any of the runners of teams by visiting https://bit.ly/2FqvnP4