Organisers of the Aldi Ashby 20 race say the event has raised thousands of pounds for charity again this year.

Attracting athletes from throughout the UK, the event takes place annually in March and is organised by runners for runners.

The 20 mile races makes this an ideal preparation for a Spring marathon. When questioned, 80 per cent of participants stated that the Ashby 20 is the pinnacle of their marathon preparation.

But there is another side to the race. Having grown in stature and numbers, it has become a community event, sourcing volunteers from many local organisations.

Without these volunteers, this and other events, simply would not exist.

Liz Fox, Head of Aldi Corporate Responsibility, receiving a £756 cheque for Teenage Cancer Trust from Richard Bebbington, Race Director, Aldi Ashby 20R

The voluntary groups include Ivanhoe Runners, Ashby Castle Rotary, Explorer Scouts, Leicestershire Search and Rescue, and Ashby Spa WI, to name a few.

In return they receive much needed donations for their group or to pass on to the charities of their choice.

This year, the donation made to Ashby Spa WI has been split between three charities - Ashby Foodbank, Hospice Hope, and Birmingham Children's Hospital.

All three were overwhelmed with their donations, with Ashby Foodbank saying it will help them support the increasing demand for their services.

Along with donations from the race, runners also have an opportunity to support Teenage Cancer Trust (TCT) the charity partner of Aldi, the main sponsors of the race.

This year, thanks to the runners, £756 was donated to TCT. In addition to the direct donations, many runners ran on behalf of their own charity, raising further funds.

Hospice Hope and Wishes 4 Kids were the official race charity partners, both raising several thousands via sponsorship.

Richard Bebbington, the Race Director said: "Whilst continuing to be a highly rated, serious road race, it's fantastic that we can pay back to the community in this way.

"We would like to thank all our volunteers and our sponsors Aldi. The event simply wouldn't exist without them."