NEARLY 1,200 runners pounded the streets of Darlington yesterday as the annual 10K Road Run was staged in glorious sunshine.

Much of the town centre was sealed off to allow athletes young and old to test themselves on the ten-kilometre two-lap course.

Organisers last night said the event, sponsored by Sherwoods, was a success again.

Jeff Dawson, of Darlington Borough Council's leisure services department, said that just under 1,000 people took part in the main race and 200 in a junior run and fun run.

He said: "It was very hot and hard work for the runners out there, but everybody got round safely. The feedback from the athletes has been very positive, they have all really enjoyed themselves."

It was the first time the run has been linked to The Northern Echo's award-winning A Chance to Live campaign, which highlights the importance of taking steps to prevent heart disease.

The campaign was launched by the newspaper in the wake of the death of its deputy chief photographer, Ian Weir, at the age of 38.

It originally focused on getting millions of pounds spent on improving coronary care, but the emphasis is now firmly on promoting prevention rather than cure.

Darlington Primary Care Trust supported the campaign, with representatives in yesterday's run.

Chief executive Colin Morris said: "The race had a real carnival atmosphere and I enjoyed the training too.

"Looking after yourself and taking part in physical activity can have such a positive effect on your life.

"Of course, the message is that any type of physical activity is better than nothing at all.

"It does not need to be a 10K. It could be walking instead of taking the bus, walking a little faster than normal, swimming once a week, even a little exercise within the privacy of your own home helps.

"Anything is better than nothing."

The run was sponsored by Sherwoods and was held in association with The Northern Echo, Darlington Borough Council, Highland Spring and Alpha radio.

Read more about the Chance to Live campaign here.