A TOTAL of 166 runners took part in the Dumble Bimble Fun Runs and almost as many people congregated at the YMCA in Reforne to cheer them on their way.

From five to 75-year-olds, 84 set off on the two-mile course and leading the way in 8m 58s was 16-year-old Niall Laming of Portland, a student at Weymouth College.

An accomplished swimmer with the Tornadoes and a keen water polo player, Niall has now taken up running to improve his time at Biathles.

He was followed into second place by Chris Philbrick in 9m 41s and Andrew Wilkinson gained third place with a time of 9m 53.

The first girl home was not available to receive her trophy and the only clue to her identity is that her T-shirt bore a 'lucky' logo and if she contacts Dave Sanderson on 01305 826820 she will receive her prize.

In the five-mile run, 28-year-old Tony White led the field all the way to finish in 28m 3s.

Boat builder Tony, who was last year's winner, is a member of the Royal Manor of Portland AC, (RMPAC), and an active member of Portland Amateur Boxing Club.

In second place was Richard Orme of Egdon Heath Harriers and Jenny Moloney of RMPAC was third. The runs were started by Echo correspondent Hilda Swinney, who is an honorary member of RMPAC.

Awards were presented by the club's race director Andy de Havilland. From entry fees and a raffle, £320 was made on the night.

The Dumble Bimble Fun Runs have been organised annually since 1996 by the RMPAC in memory of former members Al Dumble and his son, Andrew.

Chairman Dave Sanderson said: "We still have sponsorship money to come in which should take the total to over £400 and, as always, this will be donated to Weldmar in memory of Al and Andrew."