SEVERAL members of Holsworthy and Bradworthy running clubs recently took part in the annual Warhorse 10k run.

Set in the idyllic and quintessentially Devon village of Iddesleigh, the race takes its title from the Michael Morpurgo novel of the same name — in fact the painting of “Joey”, the horse who inspired the novel — proudly hangs in the village hall, where willing athletes gather to get togged up and collect race numbers; and most importantly get cake afterwards.

The annual event was in aid of raising money for two charities, namely the Farms for City Children and Devon Air Ambulance.

Participants gathered and set off in torrential rain, which although proving challenging didn’t dampen spirits as the club runners negotiated twists and turns, the gravel chippings of a country estate and a mean incline before a meandering - and somewhat welcome - downhill towards the village.

A final sprint to the finish, the runners crossed the line holding up their soggy race numbers which had come off in the wet weather!

Run leader for Holsworthy Running Club, Rhodri Davies said, “Despite the damp conditions, it was great fun and a good slog for all of us along a challenging course set in beautiful countryside.

“The atmosphere and comradery was great. The sense of history and the connection to the First World War story were not lost on us – the medal design is a poignant reminder. It was very well organised and lovely to see so much money raised for the charities Farms for City Children and Devon Air Ambulance. I look forward to doing it next year!”

Holsworthy Running Club and Bradworthy Runners are open to all; welcoming people from a range of backgrounds, ages, abilities or reasons for running. Find them on Facebook.