This year’s St Albans Half Marathon was the largest in its 33 year history, as more than 6,200 runners took part in the Verulamium Park event on Sunday.

The sun shone on 3,500 participants who ran the Half Marathon, which sold out for a second year.

Numbers also increased for both the 5K and the walking half marathon events, while children of all ages also joined in the fun by taking part in the 1.5 mile Children’s Fun Run.

The Mayor of St Albans, Annie Brewster, opened the event on one of the hottest days of the year so far.

She said: "Thank you to everyone who took part or helped support the events. It was pleasing to hear from competitors that the Half Marathon is well organised and marshalled.  This year, the support out on the course was greater than ever.

"St Albans really got behind all the competitors.  It was wonderful to see everyone having such a good time while raising a stunning amount of money for charity."

Winner of the men’s race in 71 mins, slightly outside his personal best, was Julian Lings.

Describing the event, Mr Lings said: "It was a cracking course, so varied and so challenging.  It was also very well marshalled and was exactly how a race should be organised."

Mark Caldwell, St Albans Half Marathon race director, said: "In very tough conditions, everyone who took part should be very proud of their achievement in completing their chosen event.

"I would like to give a huge thank you to everyone who assisted in making the 33rd year the biggest and best yet, and who helped raise lots of money for a number of local charities."