HUNDREDS of runners burnt off the Christmas indulgences to raise money for charity during a run at Somerley Estate, near Ringwood on Sunday.

The annual event, in aid of the Christchurch-based Wessex Autistic Society, attracted scores of club runners as well as many families and fitness enthusiasts, and even the sunshine made a fleeting appearance.

With a 10k route for regular runners and a 2k route for youngsters and families, there was something for everyone.

The event, which is the most popular in the charity’s fundraising calendar, was sponsored by Williams Thompson Solicitors with support from Nationwide and CSE Citation Centre at Hurn.

Parents with youngsters took part, some running with buggies, along with representatives from the New Forest Runners and other clubs.

And there was live music and refreshments for spectators cheering on their loved ones.

The Wessex Autistic Society was formed 43 years ago by a group of parents of children with autism.

It has a school, Portfield, at Hurn, which educates 60 pupils between the ages of three to 18, tailoring the educational curriculum according to individual needs as well as offering various support services for families.