Thousands of runners took part in one of Warwickshire’s biggest sporting spectacles, the Two Castles Run, at the weekend.

It was the first time the event, once again sponsored by Leamington law firm Berrymans Solicitors, has been fully booked since the pandemic and runners were rewarded with almost perfect conditions.

Bumper crowds also enjoyed the 40^th staging of the renowned run between Warwick and Kenilworth castles on Sunday (June 9) which, once again, lived up to its billing as one of the leading 10k runs in the country.

This year’s race, which had 4,500 places available, was organised by Kenilworth Runners in conjunction with Kenilworth Rotary and Leamington Cycling and Athletics Club.

Race organiser, Richard Clarke from Kenilworth Runners, said: “It was an impressive field of runners and befitting the Two Castles Run as it celebrates its 40^th anniversary.

“Seeing so many competitors trying their best was a fantastic spectacle and was matched by the support they were given by crowds along the route.”

Callum Hanlon (Leamington Cycling and Athletics Club) was first past the finishing line for the third year in a row, this time finishing in 31m 39s. In second place was Ian Allen (Spa Striders) who finished in 32m 01s, while Andrew Lawrence (Stratford upon Avon AC) came third finishing in 32m 18s.

Olivia Bailey (Nuneaton Harriers) was the first woman home in a time of 38m 42s, while second place was claimed by Zara Hadfield (Leamington Cycling and Athletics Club) who completed the course in 40m 07s. Lotta Crofts (Kenilworth Runners) completed the top three with a time of 40m 47s.

It was the 19th year Berrymans Solicitors was the event’s headline sponsor, with the firm also fielding a squad of 15 runners, as well as providing water station helpers.

Donna Bothamley, head of wills and probate at sponsors Berrymans Solicitors, said: “The Two Castles Run just gets better and better.

“It was a very large of field of runners, which provided great viewing for those who came out to watch and support.

“More importantly though, such a high number of competitors bodes well for the fundraising efforts that helps charities in the local area and further afield.”

The Two Castles Run is staffed entirely by unpaid volunteers and annually raises thousands of pounds for local and national charities.

To see the full results of the Two Castles, visit www.dbmax.co.uk/results.

For more information on Berrymans Solicitors, call 01926 831231 or visit www.berrymanssolicitors.com

CAPTION:

• Gilson Aveline (ESQ) , senior partner at Berrymans Solicitors, Alan Chalmers, Mayor of Kenilworth, Gilson Morgan, President of Kenilworth Rotary, Olivia Bailey, 1st placed female, Callum Hanlon, 1st placed male