A RECORD 820 runners did their bit for the Salisbury District Hospital Stars Appeal when they completed the Tidworth ten and 3k races on Salisbury Plain on Sunday.

First across the line in the men's 10k race was Simon Plummer from Amesbury in a fast time of 28 minutes and 52 seconds. Andrew Hogarth of 6th Battalion, REME came in second, with Gareth Watkins from the Bulford Camp in third.

Sarah Ponsford from Salisbury was the leading lady with a time of 35 minutes and 57 seconds. Kate Towerton was second and Leanne Renshaw third. Both come from Andover.

In the 3k race, the leading male runner under 16 was Peter Knight in a time of nine minutes, 31 seconds with Holly Kirkham coming in at 10.06 for the girls. In the under 11s, the winning boy was Alexander Tilley in a time of 10.59, with Alexandra Mundell the winning girl in nine minutes 26 seconds. Hannah Paye, fundraising co-ordinator for the Stars Appeal said: "We have again had a record turnout for the Tidworth run with so many people relishing the challenge of the event, and enjoying the beautiful autumn sunshine.

"We congratulate the winners and runners-up and thank everyone who took part. It is their commitment and enthusiasm which makes this such an important local event.

"We would also like to thank the major sponsors HPI, Sgt Bruce Scott and all the soldiers of 1 RHA for their tremendous organisation of the event."

The event, which is expected to have raised in excess of £20,000 for the appeal, was sponsored by Salisbury-based HPI, supported by Asda and the Salisbury Journal. It was hosted by Craig Hicks of Spire FM.

This year, there were a number of attractions for participants and spectators, which included the Nike+ roadshow which showed the new Nike+ range compatible with the IPOD.

There were also free massages from qualified sport therapists and special promotions from Salisbury's LA Fitness.