MORE than 100 runners turned out for the first event held by Ramsbottom Running Club – it’s Summer Mile around Nuttall Park in Ramsbottom.

There was something for all the family, with a further 50 juniors taking on the 1km Fun Run.

Prestwich AC's Rob Fowler was the inaugural winner in a time of 5mins 5secs, followed by Michael Hunt (5:09) and George Butler (5:22).

The women's race was won by Burnden Roadrunner Paula Pilling in 6:12, followed by Radcliffe AC's Jenny Yates (6:12) and Vanessa Lobb (6:41).

Chairman Rowan Ardill said: "To have gone from the very early stages of forming a club, through to building a thriving membership and now holding a successful first event, all within the space of less than 12 months, is unbelievable and a testament to what can be achieved with a great group of people around you.

"The atmosphere around the park was so encouraging, welcoming and friendly to all runners – the youngest, the oldest, those taking part in their first ever race and those going for personal best times.

"It was everything we hoped our first club event would be."

A total of 114 finishers crossed the line and each were awarded a limited edition, specially-brewed bottle of Summer Mile Ale in their goodie bags, brewed by Ramsbottom Craft Brewery.

Heavy rain throughout the day had threatened to dampen spirits, but runners, supporters and families turned out in force.

"We’d like to thank the Friends of Nuttall Park for their help and support in allowing us to use the space, along with Ramsbottom Tesco for the funding boost," added Ardill.

"We will be back next year – hopefully bringing some sunshine – for an even better, even bigger and even more friendly event.

"In the meantime, we are hoping to see lots of new faces at our weekly runs, from Irwell Works Brewery each Tuesday."

The club, which celebrates its first anniversary in September, was awarded £1,000 by Tesco as part of its Bags of Help scheme and the funding was used to deliver the Summer Mile event.

Ardill added: "Having grown to more than 115 members since its inception, Ramsbottom Running Club has played a big part in helping runners of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to engage in fun, sociable exercise.

"This included a cohort of runners who have recently completed a "10-weeks to 10K" programme in association with the I Will If You Will programme, and delivered by the club, as well as delivering regular guide running sessions in conjunction with Bury Society for Blind and Partially Sighted People.

"The club is all about inclusivity and sociable running, encouraging people to get their trainers on again after a break, return to running or perhaps run more regularly in a really supportive environment, helping people to build confidence and feel part of a warm club atmosphere."

Ramsbottom Running Club meets at 7pm every Tuesday night, with runs ranging in length and duration to suit all levels and abilities.

Visit www.ramsbottomrunningclub.co.uk to find out more about the club, or search ‘Ramsbottom Running Club’ on social media.