A RECORD number of runners flocked to Salisbury parkrun on Saturday.

Some 287 walkers and runners descended on Churchill Gardens for the 5k run and launch of the Walk2Run Initiative.

Competitors braved the thick mud and ankle-deep puddles throughout the three laps of the gardens.

Event director, Elizabeth Roberts, who scooped the volunteer award that night at City of Salisbury Club's annual dinner and awards ceremony, said she wasn't expecting such a bumper turnout.

"We were very surprised that so many turned up to participate, which meant we exceeded our last attendance record by 47, despite a pretty dreadful weather forecast. It just shows how popular Salisbury parkrun has become."

"Our Walk2Run Initiative was well attended, attracting over 20 new starters who either walked or walked/ran the 5K."

Roberts was among many volunteers to be recognised for their tireless efforts at the city club's awards' evening at White Hart Hotel.

Outgoing race director of the Salisbury 10mile race, Rod Smith, received a special trophy for having made the well-known March event one of the best in the country.

The well-deserved top team award was shared by the club’s track and field A teams, their success reflected in the awards also made to Sarah Warren and Richard Holt for their host of sparkling achievements.

Young mother Kathy Dudman took the award for the club’s most improved lady and Rithy Hy was the popular winner of the men’s prize in the same category.

Jo-Anne Gready, who joined the club during the season and quickly logged some good performances on the road, was awarded the title as best lady, and supervet Mike Brewster, whose running seems to improve as he gets older, was the winner of the club’s best among the men.

Meanwhile, Salisbury’s Iain Rutherford pulled off an outstanding win in the notoriously testing 10mile Rough and Tumble cross country race near Pewsey, clocking 72min 6secs.

Not far behind, among more than 500 other finishers, Ian Shelley filled 13th spot in a time of 78.29.