THE county's first ever single lap marathon took place on Sunday as part of the new-look Festival of Running.

Funds from the Hereford festival, which also included half marathon, 10K and 5K routes, will go to St Michael's Hospice in Bartestree and are set to top last year's total of £60,000.

More than 1,000 runners took part.

The marathon was won by Sage Pearce-Higgins in two hours, 52 minutes. His brother, Alfie, came third, with James Beauchamp between them in second.

"It’s a tough course," said Sage, who grew up in Herefordshire but now lives in London.

"The marshals were great though and in all the right places, and there were enough water stations."

The event was held at Hereford Leisure Centre on Holmer Road.

The marathon route took runners out to Weobley and Sarnesfield, before returning through Brinsop and Credenhill.

Hereford resident Stewart Lilley completed his first ever marathon in a time of four hours, 31 minutes.

He said: "From Huntingdon Lane I had nothing left at all.

"But I’m delighted to have done it. The organisation was absolutely brilliant."

Stuart has completed five half marathons before and said he likes a challenge.

He also had a special reason for raising money for St Michael’s.

"My sister was at the hospice for the last few days of her life," he said.

"They were fantastic to her and I’ve always wanted to give something back."

The half marathon was won by William New in a time of one hour, 15 minutes. Charlie Jones won the 10K in 34 minutes, 19 seconds, with Aidan Webb winning first prize in the 5K in 20 minutes, 37 seconds.

Hospice events manager Matt Ashcroft said: "The Festival of Running has been a huge success.

"To have more than 1,000 runners taking part is tremendous.

"We would like to thank them all, and those who have sponsored them.

"Thanks must also go to those who have volunteered. Their help has ensured the day has been a great success."

The St Michael’s Hospice Events season continues on Sunday, June 4 with Totally Wiped Out, The Paint Runner on Saturday, June 17, and Wheelie Big Cycle on Sunday, July 16.

Western Power Distribution sponsored the event. 

For more information visit st-michaels-hospice.org.uk