BLUE was the colour in Royston on Sunday when an army of runners took to Therfield Heath for the annual Royston in Blue charity run.

Royston Crow: Runners in Royston in BlueRunners in Royston in Blue (Image: Archant)

The event saw 700 participants dress up in bright blue costumes to raise funds for the Teenage Cancer Cancer trust.

Royston Crow: Runners take part in Royston in BlueRunners take part in Royston in Blue (Image: Archant)

Before the start of the race, Lisa Thompson, chairman of the organising committee, gave a moving speech to remember former committee member Steph Knight, who lost her fight against cancer on May 22.

Friends and family let off balloons in the 21-year-old’s memory, and there was a minute of applause from the entrants.

First runner across the line in a time of 22 minutes, 22 seconds, was superfit dad Paul Makowski, who was pushing his baby daughter, Evie in her pushchair.

Prizes were awarded for the best dressed entrant. These went to Karen Petrie, for her Smurf costume, while her sons, Callum and Lewis Petrie shared the award for best-dressed under-10s. Ellie Beed, who dressed as a prince, was voted best dress teenager.

A spokesman from the organising committee said over £5,000 had already been collected as they aim to beat last year’s final total of £6,500.

“Royston in Blue was a hugely successful family fun run, which raised vital funds for Teenage Cancer Trust.

“We are so grateful to the people of Royston who came out in force to support the event and have such a great time in the process.”

Entrants can pay their sponsorship money in to NatWest Bank in Royston, using their race number as a reference.