HUNDREDS braved the wind and rain to take on a charity run in aid of the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal on Saturday.

The annual Run2Remember took place at Lydiard Park with entrants being able to compete on 1.1km, 5km and 11km courses.

Runners were raising money for the Poppy Appeal, which aims to raise £40m this year, through sponsorship from family and friends.

James Hill, 42, who was taking part with his son Ryan, 13, said: “It is a real privilege to be part of this event and help to commemorate our current and former servicemen. The weather might not be great but taking on the elements is a very small sacrifice for us to make.”

Before the runners took to the course they were warmed up by British Military Fitness and mascot Poppy Man.

The Defence Academy Military Wives Choir also took to the stage and performed to rouse the large crowd of runners and their supporters.

Anna Vincent-Hill, from the choir, said: “It has been absolutely amazing to be here today and be a part of this amazing event. The public have been so supportive and it was a pleasure for us to perform. It was quite early in the morning and we know the weather hasn’t been great but I thought the ladies’ voices held very well.

“I think there’s an extra poignancy to remembrance events this year with it being the centenary of the First World War beginning but I would say that the public, like every year, get behind the cause with great enthusiasm.”

At the park, there were stalls selling merchandise in support of the Poppy Appeal while the army also had a stall.

The organisers of Run2Remember felt this year’s event was a huge success.

Leah Harris, event organiser, said: “Everything has been great and we’ve had an amazing turnout. We are extremely pleased to see so many people coming forward and taking part in an alternative form of commemoration.

“A big thank you to everyone who has taken part and supported the event.”

The Poppy Appeal raises money to support servicemen and their families.