More than 1,000 people defied the drizzly weather on Sunday and turned out for this year's Reigate and Redhill YMCA charity Fun Run.

Keen YMCA supporter, Eastenders star Shane Ritchie, returned to Reigate's Priory Park to start the main event, the adults' five-mile race.

And being the year of the London Games, this year's event also drew Ed Cox, world silver medallist at the canoe sprint.

Ed, who is currently training towards London 2012, went along to start the Under 8s race and present some of the prizes.

He said: “I am delighted to act as an ambassador for promoting Olympic sports.

“It’s going to be a fantastic summer for sport and I can’t wait to feel the vibe that will surround the Olympics over the coming months.”

He added: “The whole country needs to get behind sporting events like today and join in.”

The event, held in aid of local YMCA projects benefiting some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in the community, welcomed competitors of all ages and abilities.

Running alongside it, the Festival of Sport, a joint venture between Reigate and Banstead District Sports Council and Reigate and Banstead Borough Council Leisure Services Department, offered entertainment and demonstrations from more than 30 local sports clubs.

The displays mounted included archery, hockey and gymnastics, plus a “Keepie Uppie” competition and other interactive events.

In the fun run though, Reigate Priory Athletics club scored an impressive double when 38-year-old South Park resident, Ryan Harris, finished first man home in 27 minutes and 57 seconds, and Natalie Wilson crossed the line first for the ladies in 31 minutes and 6 seconds.

YMCA chief executive Ian Burks, said : “In the past 13 years, nearly 12,000 adults and children in total have taken part in the fun run.”

He said: “Today it’s been fantastic to see so many families braving the chill and, as usual, we had a mix of people taking part, from four-year-olds winning their first ever medal, through to 89-year-old Jack Parker, who was our last finisher in the final race. Brilliant!”

All money raised go towards local YMCA projects, and a full list of runners, times and placings can be viewed through a link on the YMCA website at: www.ymcachallenges.org.uk.

Next year's 14th YMCA Fun Run will take place on Sunday, May 5.