HUNDREDS of runners took to countryside trails to take part in the inaugural 'CamuPlodunum' Marathon.

The run, which was to celebrate Colchester’s newly-acquired city status, started at Eight Ash Green Cricket Club.

The 26-mile race circumnavigated the city on a route devised by Colchester Rambler Derek Keeble 49 years ago.

It was resurrected to celebrate Colchester’s city status by trail event organisers Company of Runners.

Mr Keeble and Colchester mayor Tim Young were on hand at the start to set the runners on their way.

Gazette: Colchester Rambler Derek Keeble and mayor Tim YoungColchester Rambler Derek Keeble and mayor Tim Young (Image: N/A)

Colchester Harrier Allen Smalls was first across the line in a time of 3:38:37, while Becca Hayden of Garden City Runners was first female in 4:06:23.

Earlier in the day, Tiptree Road Runner Bob Bardell won the shorter Camu10kunum race in 50:49, while Colchester Harrier Michelle Lock was first female in 55:41.

Company of Runners Director John Stoneman said: “It was a fantastic achievement for everyone that completed the races, as the recent wet weather had made some sections incredibly wet and muddy.

“We would like to thank Derek Keeble and Colchester Mayor Tim Young for starting both races and Eight Ash Green Cricket Club for being such wonderful hosts.”