Sun shines on Royal 5K

Put on by Bexhill Runners and supported by TL Sports Events, the fun run produced 140 finishers - a number of whom sported wedding dress to commemorate the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Joshua Varney, of Hastings AC, was the winner in a time of 16 minutes and 19 seconds. Stuart Sorrell (Hailsham Runners) was 26 seconds back in second and third-placed Lee Ashworth was a further 40 seconds adrift.

Michaela Furlong (Team Bodyworks XTC TriStore) was the leading lady in 19th overall in 20.46, some 48 seconds quicker than Bexhill Runners’ Emma Faulkner. Each finisher received a bespoke Royal 5K commemorative medal.

The event started in Devonshire Road at 9.30am and headed west along the seafront before returning back along the same stretch to the finish, also in Devonshire Road, to a healthy gathering of spectators.

The Royal 5K raised money for the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry, which helps young people who are disadvantaged or in need of guidance, armed forces personnel who have been injured and their families, and the environment.

A list of the top 50 finishers and more pictures will appear in Friday’s Bexhill Observer.