FREEZING conditions did not stop intrepid runners taking to the lanes of Bromham to raise £5,000 for the village school in the annual pudding race on Sunday.

Marshalls got into the Christmas spirit by wearing Santa, Rudolph and pudding costumes as they guided scores of runners around the 10K route.

Military policeman Darren Jones, who is a parent from St Nicholas primary, made it particularly hard for himself as after lads in the mess said they would sponsor him an extra £50 if he completed the course in his army kit and carrying a 25kg pack.

Race winner was Ewen Malloch who completed the course in 33mins 59 while Ruth Barnes was first woman home in 34mins 29.

Members of Chippenham Harries aid in advance they would donate the puddings they got for taking part to Devizes Foodbank and on the day other runners followed suit.

Race director Catherine Body said: ""Bromham Pudding Run 2016 was another fantastic event. It was a beautiful sunny morning but very chilly so the frost was a bit of a concern. Our support team pulled together beautifully however and managed to grit the entire course delaying the start by only 10 minutes.

"The marshals pulled out all the stops this year dressing up - we had puddings, Santa and Rudolph - and blasting Christmas tunes out to keep the runners spirits high.

"We've had some fantastic feedback from the runners who really appreciated the support around the course. The whole event is so well supported by the local community, with one Bromham resident remarking that Christmas doesn't start until the Pudding Run has taken place.

"I personally have had a great three years as race director but I am looking forward to hanging up the high viz and joining the runners on the finish line in 2017."