RECORD numbers of runners waded their way through a tough and muddy 10km course to raise money for Prospect Hospice.

A total of 230 people took part in the annual Mud Run which is now in its fifth year in aid of the Wroughton-based hospice.

For the first time this year the event has been made even more challenging with the addition of optional obstacles along the route, all designed to test the stamina and agility of runners taking part.

Neil Smith, 46, from Wroughton was the first man across the line in an impressive time of 40 minutes.

“This is my second time taking part so I’m happy with that time,” he said.

“My dad died of cancer five years ago and Prospect were really good to him and my mum and so it is nice to come out and support them.

“I run several times a week and with this 10km in particular, it was a physical challenge not because of the distance but also getting through the mud.”

Starting and ending at the Pavilion building just opposite Nationwide’s headquarters on Pipers Way, the course took runners through Croft Woods, down Ladder Lane and across Wood Farm.

Each individual or group could raise money through sponsorship or make a donation to the charity which second timer Will Mcaree, from Newbury, decided to do.

Will, 36, said: “My mum used Prospect Hospice and it was great for her when she needed it and it is something I feel strongly about supporting.

"I try to incorporate this course into my racing calendar because it raises money and awareness. I also find myself thinking about my mum as I complete the course which is nice.

“I don’t know what we would have done without Prospect Hospice. They made that really challenging part of my mum’s life that little bit easier.

"She liked spending time in their gardens and it is a really lovely place.”

The first woman across the line was Nationwide worker Dawn Davies, 46, who like her fellow competitors, has a personal link to the charity after a close friend died of a brain tumour in October.

“When you see first-hand the work Prospect does, it makes it that more important to come out and support them," she added.

"What I like to say is that when you run these things, you run them mindfully because you are not just running for yourself but you are running in the spirit of someone else.

“I love the off-road course and the mud doesn’t bother me but what was nice this year is that my husband and son are marshals along the course and they were stood there with tambourines and bongos cheering everyone on.”

Organiser Louise Brooks from Prospect Hospice’s fundraising team was delighted to see friends and family cheering on their loved ones despite the cold weather.

“Prospect is important to a lot of people in the Swindon community and I think from the people that we have seen taking part over the years, it is a cause close to their heart,” she said.

“This year we have introduced obstacles for the first time to add something different to tie in with our fifth year. We know that obstacle courses are becoming more popular so we wanted to offer something for people in Swindon as well as raising money for the hospice.

“It is a very muddy course so it is not one to get a personal best on but it is a bit of a challenge and fun.”