MORE than £65,000 has been raised for Epilepsy Action after thousands of runners took part in the Bradford 10k road race.

A record breaking 3,000 runners tackled the course in support of people across the UK who are affected by epilepsy.

The annual event, organised by the Yeadon-based national charity, has raised more than £450,000 since 2008.

This year’s race was opened by 200m sprinting champion Beth Dobbin.

Runners braved wintry conditions to take on the route, from Centenary Square to Frizinghall and back.The course was fast and flat and included both first-timers and elite runners. First across the finish line was Joe Sagar, clinching his fourth win in a time of 32 minutes 25 seconds. He runs with Spenborough Athletics Club. Joe was followed by Jonathan Walton and Marcin Soszka in second and third places. The first woman to finish was Jemima Elgood from Ilkley Harriers, running in 36 minutes 27 seconds. Hot on her heels were Sophie Martin and Kate Archer. Winners received £100 in vouchers and the first-placed male and female won places in next year’s event.

Prizes were handed out by Epilepsy Action ambassador and champion sprinter Beth Dobbin. The Alice Redmond prize, for fastest runner aged 21 and under, was awarded to Huseen Usuie of Bingley Harriers. The prize is awarded in memory of Alice Redmond, who helped to develop the Bradford 10k.

Carl Foster, fundraising events manager at Epilepsy Action, said: “The people of Bradford and beyond are always so supportive of this event. A record 3,000 runners signed up this year, making this our biggest race yet. It’s been a fantastic morning with so many people out enjoying the race and supporting people with epilepsy.

“Special thanks must go to all of the runners, volunteers, marshals and supporters. All of the funds raised at this event are vital in helping Epilepsy Action to continue to deliver its life-changing services.”

Epilepsy affects around one in every 100 people in the UK and 87 people are diagnosed with the condition every day. Last year, Epilepsy Action directly helped around two million people through a range of services, including its Epilepsy Action Helpline freephone 0808 800 5050, branch network and website, epilepsy.org.uk

Around 600,000 people are affected by epilepsy in the UK. More than 50,000 people across Yorkshire and The Humber are living with the condition.