THOUSANDS of runners have taken to the streets of Winchester today for the city's half marathon.

The event returned in 2016 after a 30-year absence and has named Southampton-based Countess Mountbatten Hospice as its chosen charity.

The route sees runners start outside the Guildhall before heading through the countryside and past landmarks including St Catherine's Hill, Winchester Catherdral, and the King Alfred Statue.

The marathon has been won by Richard Johnstone, who crossed the line in 1hr and 16min.

The 35-year-old machine operator, from Portsmouth, was competing in the event for the first time.

He was cheered and applauded by spectators as he crossed the finishing line outside Winchester's historic guildhall.

Proudly displaying his medal he said: "I normally do ultra marathons and compete in this sort of event for training.

"My time is about what I thought it would be but I had hoped that competition from behind would push me forward.

"It's my first time here but I think I will do it again. Crossing the finishing line was just amazing."

Asked what he thought was the best part of the race he said: "The downhill bits."

Scroll through the gallery above to see the pictures