On Sunday 17th January 2016, over 3,000 runners took part in the first ever Cancer Research UK Liverpool Winter Run.

Participants, including BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Minchin from Chester and Emmerdale actor Kurtis Stacey from Wavertree, joined thousands of Liverpool locals running through the closed roads past the iconic Liver Building and Albert Dock on the 10k run, which raises money for life-saving research.

Runners were met by friendly ‘snowmen’ on arrival at the Echo Arena, which was hosting a winter themed event village for the runners. Local radio presenter Leanne Campbell was on the microphone offering some final help and advice.

After Nuffield Health, the official Health & Wellbeing partner of the series, provided a winter-themed warm up and got the crowd ready and the muscles prepped, the runners headed to the start line by Queens Wharf to be welcomed by a very enthusiastic St Bernard dog. Participants were joined on the course by polar bear characters, who offered encouraging hugs, ran past a fantastic steel band, and through the ‘penguin party’, hosted by Radio City FM. A Giant Snow Zone located on the waterfront coated everyone in a flurry of snowflakes before they returned to the arena to cross the finish line in front of hundreds of spectators.

The first person back on the day was Ian Moran from Kirby Milers AC who was streets ahead of the next runner, setting the inaugural course record at 34 minutes and 36 seconds. There was a tight contest for second place with just 6 seconds separating Robert Kelly (36:21) from Knowsley Harriers and Kyle Harrison (36:27) from Liverpool Running Club. Samantha Dutton was the fastest female finisher in 42:06, followed by Katie Connery who crossed the line in 42:46. Jennie Gregson was hot on her heels taking the final spot on the podium with a time of 42:52. All were greeted to cheers from the waiting crowd and a congratulatory hug from the Winter Run Series polar bears as well as a snowflake themed medal and a refreshing drink of Vita Coco. Many of the runners commenting on the fantastic sights and incredible atmosphere throughout as well as the seriously wintry conditions!

The next edition of the 2016 Cancer Research UK Winter Run Series takes place in London on Sunday 31 January with the finale in Manchester on Sunday 28 February. Limited spaces are still available for any runners who missed out on the Liverpool event or those who would like a second crack at a winter themed 10k to try and beat their time. Anyone wishing to enter the Cancer Research UK Manchester Winter Run can use the code LIVERPOOL for a discounted £20 entry.

Places in the 2017 Cancer Research UK Liverpool Winter Run will become available later this year. To register interest, visit www.liverpoolwinterrun.co.uk.