MORE than 300 people, aged from eight to 82, laced up their running shoes for a gruelling fundraiser yesterday in the grounds of a historic mansion.

Thirty-two teams rallied for the Bradbeers Charity Relay Marathon at the Broadlands Estate in Romsey.

Each member of a ten-strong group took it in turns to run two laps of a 2.6- mile course.

Organized by the Rotary Club and sponsored by Bradbeers, the event aims to boost local charities.

The first £100 raised goes toward Rotary charities, including the Leonora Cancer Fund, and at least 50 per cent of the remainder must go to a charity serving the Romsey area.

The Stanbridge Earls School team won first place.

Another trophy will be awarded to the team that raises the most in sponsorship, all of which must be in by July 1.