DURING working hours their thoughts are firmly on the water but, last weekend, a 16-strong team of ABP staff laced up their trainers and took part in the second-ever ABP Southampton Half Marathon and 10k (Sunday 24 April).

The race saw over 6,000 runners pound the pavements of Southampton, passing iconic landmarks such as the Bargate, QE2 Anchor, St Mary's Stadium and the Itchen Bridge.

In total, port staff took to the streets for over 1,470 minutes, covering over 160 miles.

Among those who took part was Will Jeffrey, senior project engineer at the port, who ran the 10k race in 56 minutes. Will said: "It was a fantastic event and I did even better than I thought I would.

"I was unwell in March so did little training and still managed to beat my time by a good 30 seconds. A big well done to everyone."

David Leighton, head of public affairs and corporate communications at ABP's head office, completed the half marathon in 2 hours, 18 minutes. David said: "For me, the whole experience was fantastic, in particular the support from people all the way around the route.

"The children handing out jelly babies, the high fives and the personal words of encouragement. It was wonderful to see how the event galvanised support across the city.

"Contrary to my own expectation of running a half marathon, I actually had great fun and enjoyed myself – thanks to the people of Southampton."

Port manager, Clive Thomas, who attended the event and presented the winners' awards on the day, said: "We are extremely proud to sponsor this fantastic event. It brought the community together, with spectators lining the streets, from the High Street to Highfield, St Mary's Stadium to Southampton Common. The city took the race to its heart, as did our team of staff.

"Thank you to all of the runners, ABP Milemakers and volunteers who made the ABP Southampton Half Marathon and 10k a huge success.

"See you all next year."