1,000 runners took part in the Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice 5km Colour Run

Park-goers turned a dramatic colour in Bexley last week. But it was not because of the scorching sun burning sensitive British skin.

Instead it was the Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice 5km Colour Run.

Almost 1,000 runners took part in the Danson Park run, being covered in coloured powder throughout the race.

This was the first year the hospice has opened up the race to youngsters, following on from its success with the annual Santa Dash in Danson Park and the Mini Marathon in Greenwich Park.

In 2017, the race raised £30,000 for the hospice, which provides free end-of-life care to adults in the local community.

Megan Boyle, deputy fundraising manager, said: “We know local families enjoy participating in these fun events and thought the kids would love the idea of being covered in paint at the end of the race.

“We opened up the registration and the response has been great.”

The hospice estimates that about £40,000 was raised.

The run was led by 51-year-old Greenwich fitness expert Ellie Brown.

Ellie, who leads running classes in Greenwich Park, said: “I love the Colour Run because the emphasis is on fun, not racing or trying to get a fast time.

“People can run, walk, skip or dance around, and as long as they’re moving, they’re improving their health.”

For more details on her classes visit www.greenwichpilates.co.uk.