NEARLY 1,200 runners pounded the streets of Darlington on Sunday when the annual 10k Road Run was staged in glorious sunshine.

Some roads were closed for up to two hours to make the circular route around the western side of the town centre safe for the athletes, who ran two laps of the course.

Organisers declared the event, sponsored by Sherwoods, another huge success.

Jeff Dawson, of the borough council's leisure services department, said just under 1,000 people took part in the main race and 200 in a junior run and fun run.

"It was very hot and hard work for the runners out there, but everybody got round safely," he said. "The feedback from the athletes has been very positive, they've all really enjoyed themselves."

The sunshine had been in complete contrast to last year's race which was run in a torrential downpour after dramatic storms hit the town.

This year was the was the first time the run was linked to The Northern Echo's A Chance to Live campaign, highlighting the importance of taking steps to prevent heart disease. Darlington Primary Care Trust had representatives in Sunday's run.

Chief executive Colin Morris said: "The race had a real carnival atmosphere and I enjoyed the training too.

"Looking after yourself and taking part in physical activity can have such a positive effect on your life. Of course, the message is that any type of physical activity is better than nothing at all."

The run was held in association with The Northern Echo, the borough council, Highland Spring and Alpha radio.

Mike Scott, 38, of Carlisle won the men's race in 31min 55sec, leading the Border Harriers to the team prize. Susie Rutherford, of Darlington, won the women's race in 37min 57 sec.