CLOSE to 2,500 runners dug deep in warm conditions to finish the Southend Half Marathon on Sunday.

The first male runner to finish was James Connor, of Kent AC, who crossed the line in one hour, 10 minutes and 46 seconds while Beth Bohaine, who signed up on the day to compete, was the first female finisher.

Echo:

First male - James Connor

Bohaine ran one hour, 27 minutes and 57 seconds to clinch first place and Adam Goldspink-Burgess also had plenty celebrate after winning the wheelchair race.

Luke Gill triumphed in the 5k family run which - like all the events - was started by Southend United manager Phil Brown.

And Judy Grocott, the events manager at Havens Hospices, was delighted to see the day run smoothly.

“The day couldn’t have gone any better and it was great to see so many local people not only taking part but lining the route to cheer runners on,” said Grocott.

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Fun run winner - Luke Gill

“Every runner who has trained for this event and crossed that start line has helped our hospices to continue caring for local adults, children and families when they need it most, and with their help we are well on our way to our £100,000 fundraising target.

“However, the event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of so many local people and organisations.

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Starting the race - Blues boss Phil Brown

“We’d like to thank all the volunteers who helped marshal the route and water stations, Phil Brown for starting the race plus Olympus Keymed, Sundried, Southend Borough Council, Runners Edge, EDMS Medical plus Southend and Shoebury Detachment.”