SUNDAY'S Hearts First Wyre Forest 5k attracted a bumper entry and looks set to raise a staggering £20,000 for the British Heart Foundation.

More than 550 people took part in the event , backed by the Shuttle/Times & News - almost a 50 per cent increase on entries for the first race a year ago.

Louise McCathie, BHF event organiser said: "I would like to say a huge thank you to the Shuttle and its kind-hearted readers for supporting the Wyre Forest 5k.

"Thanks to coverage in the newspaper, the event attracted 587 participants, which was fantastic and far more than we were anticipating so we're thrilled.

"We're hoping that once all the sponsorship is in, the day will have raised £20,000 to support the work of the foundation."

The event, which started and finished at the visitor centre at Callow Hill and followed an attractive route through the Wyre Forest, brought out walkers and joggers of all ages as well as a serious runners.

First home in a time of 18mins 52 seconds was Mitch Blundell from Cannock, closely followed by Wall Heath runner Ian Mansell in 19 minutes.

Some groups took the chance to have a family outing, wheeling their children along in pushchairs or walking the dog along the way.

One owner, Nick Darley from Heightington, was at Crufts with English Setter Sebastian the day before but shook off the disappointment of failing to pick up a prize by getting a breath of fresh air in the forest.

Sebastian was the first dog home!

Other entrants like early Easter bunnies Zoe Day and Kathryn Carlyle from Bewdley wore fancy dress, while those from the more senior age group simply strolled along the wooded tracks Teacher Lloyd Wallace had two good reasons to be among those taking part.

The 55-year-old from Far Forest has a close connection with the BHF after being diagnosed with a congenital heart condition six years ago and having to undergo a 12-hour open heart operation.

As he was showing no symptoms whatsoever, the diagnosis was completely unexpected.

Just 10 months ago his son William was born but his joy quickly turned to worry when Lloyd and his wife were told by doctors that they had discovered William had a heart murmur.

After further tests they were told he had a faulty heart valve and would need surgery during his childhood. There is a strong possibility the condition is also congenital.

Lloyd said: "When we heard about the Wyre Forest 5K, my wife and I decided to participate as a family unit. We walked the course with William in his pushchair.

"Family, friends and work colleagues kindly agreed to sponsor us on the challenge.

"My wife and I both know how important the BHF is in supporting people and funding research into heart conditions. I feel lucky to be alive."

Louise McCathie said: "The support of people in Worcestershire is vital because across the UK, almost 600 sons, daughters, mothers, fathers and friends lose their lives to heart and circulatory disease every day.

"The charity is committed to preventing lives being devastated by the disease and its research has helped save many lives - but it needs ongoing support."

She added: "Many participants have already been in touch to say how much they enjoyed the event and we have already had our first enquiries for people wishing to take part next year."

For those wishing to sign up for next year or for information on other local events, visit bhf.org.uk/events or call 0800 169 3672.