RUNNERS faced a challenging and hilly route for the first race day held by the John Hampden Grammar School at West Wycombe Park on Sunday.

Just under 100 runners took part in the 5k and 10k run with money raised going towards the High Wycombe school's new food and technology building.

In the 10k Greg McGivern from Farnham Common came first, Mary Spalton from Aston Rowant was the first woman to cross the line and Oliver Colston was the first JHGS student.

There was a battle for second place in the men's 10k which ended in a tie with Stephen Blake and Steven Boyd.

For the 5k race student Alexander Dmitrijevic from Loudwater won, Sian Brown from Great Kingshill was the first woman and David Bosley was the first man to finish.

Event organiser Philip Maskell said: “It is the first event. I am pleased every one got around and there was no injuries.

“We hope it will build over time. We have had some great feedback from people who took part.”

Everyone was welcome to take part in the multi terrain runs. The event took place at the park with permission of Sir Edward Dashwood Bt.

The park is a national trust property and the entry fee includes £1 donation to the West Wycombe Charitable Trust.

Lesley Martin-Pearce, who is on the organising committee, said: “It was so picturesque. Competitors ran around the lake and past beautiful follies. It is just gorgeous.”

Trophies were sponsored by Beaconsfield company Recognition Express South Bucks.