FIFTY runners and walkers fought against heavy rainfall to complete the first Bedale Bash and raise more than £1,000 for sports facilities.

Local entrants of all ages took part in the event and were sponsored for the number of 1.5 mile laps they managed to complete in a designated time - one hour for children and 90 minutes for adults.

The youngest competitor, 18-month-old Finlay Ellis, managed to complete one lap, while nine-year-old Aaron Dixon, from Catterick Village, won the 14-and-under category by completing six laps.

Organiser Andy Mundy said despite the thunder storms, last weekend's Bedale Bash had gone well and he hoped it would become an annual event in the town.

The money raised at the sponsored run will be put towards Bedale Junior Football Club's £200,000 Pitch and Pavilion scheme.

Sponsorship money should be handed into Bedale Leisure Centre and anyone who presents their race number will get a free swim.