A SECOND annual Solstice Saunter in aid of Manorlands was a massive success.

More than 640 runners took part in the event, which raised about £15,000 for the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

Participants covered a five-mile route around the Bolton Abbey estate last Wednesday evening (June 21), the summer solstice.

Behind the event was the social running group Airedale Dodgers, comprising more than 200 healthcare professionals and friends from Airedale NHS Foundation Trust.

It is a regular supporter of Manorlands.

Sponsorship was provided by CHN Financial Consultancy, of Morley, and Keighley's Airedale Shopping Centre.

Backing also came from the host estate team, McNally Electrical Yorkshire and Keighley-based Bridgehouse Brewery, which produced a special Solstice Saunter beer.

Each finisher received a bottle of the ale and a new bespoke medal, which featured a midge after a swarm of the insects followed the back-markers in last year's event.

"This year the event sweeper was dressed as a midge and followed the participants home!" said Manorlands community fundraising manager, Andrew Wood.

He added: "We'd like to thank all the members of Airedale Dodgers, our sponsors and everyone who took part in what was another hugely successful event."

David Senior, an Airedale Dodgers member and the race director, said he was delighted with how the evening went.

He added: "Our second Saunter was a huge success thanks to the many volunteers who gave-up their time and the enthusiastic runners, who travelled from far and wide to support such a worthy cause."

Airedale Dodgers has now raised more than £50,000 for the hospice over the years.

Last year's inaugural Saunter coined-in £10,000.

Matthew Kay, a senior financial consultant with CHN, said: "We were delighted to support such a great cause and hope to continue our relationship with the event in the future."

And Steve Seymour, Airedale Shopping Centre manager, said: "After supporting Sue Ryder Manorlands through the Keighley BigK 10K for many years, it was great to be backing this summer run as well this year."

Results from this year's run can be found at racebest.com/results/solstice-saunter.