Birthday cake and mud were both in abundance on Saturday as runners celebrated the first anniversary of the Wimpole parkrun.

The five km parkrun, which takes place in the grounds of National Trust estate Wimpole Hall, has become a popular Crow country event since it launched last January, and more than 200 runners turned up to take part in the anniversary event, many of whom wore fancy dress for the occasion.

A spokesman for the organisers explained: “Wimpole is one of nearly 250 parkruns across the country boosting the nation’s health every Saturday morning at 9am.

“Throughout 2013, runners of all ages and abilities - 1,858 in total – have turned out to enjoy the fine surroundings of the Wimpole Estate, making new friends along the way. The runs are free for all, marshalled by a core of volunteers, and most agree the experience is a fun way to keep fit with many becoming regular runners.”

Costumes in Saturday’s run included a onesie-wearing clown, a dog, dragon and fox. They were joined by pushchairs with passengers, dogs on leads, and lots of young runners.

Martyn Fisher was one of those involved, and was taking part in the Parkrun for the 31st time.

He said: “I can think of no better way to work up a sweat and get dirty on a Saturday morning! Sincere thanks to all involved in kicking off this event in a superb setting, and for supporting it throughout the year.”

New runners are joining the free event all the time, and 45 members of Saturday’s group were first-timers. Wimpole parkrun organisers are looking forward to welcoming many more newcomers during 2014. For further information, log on to www.parkrun.org.uk/wimpoleestate. Regular updates and photos are also posted on the run’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/WimpoleHallparkrun.