MONEY raised by plucky runners galloping over various obstacles at Barbury Castle for the Horseless Steeplechase has been presented to the Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

Rotary clubs from Marlborough and Swindon recently handed over a cheque of £1,500 to the charity following the annual event in August at the Barbury International Horse Trials Course, just outside of Marlborough.

The annual competition saw hundreds of runners wade through water jumps, dash past a makeshift Stonehenge and run up to ten miles, some people also donned fancy dress for the competition.

It was organised by the Marlborough and District Rotary Club, and the Swindon Phoenix Rotary Club who split the proceeds between local charities.

Rotarians and rotary presidents gathered at the air ambulance’s headquarters in Devizes to present the money.

“Our objective is to raise money to support local charities and to be able to give a cheque is always a pleasure,” said Rex Sandbach, president of the Marlborough branch.

“We have been connected with the air ambulance for many years and were able to meet the people. Fortunately and unfortunately the ambulance was out of call when we visited so we did not get to see the new helicopter, but it goes to show it is in use.

“The Horseless Steeplechase is very important to us and we do it in collaboration with the Swindon Phoenix Club’s support.”

The rotary clubs are also looking to restructure this year’s event and hold it later in the year, possibly in October. No finalised plans have yet been confirmed but they want to make the event more of a challenge.

Mr Sandbach added: "We want to attract serious runners in the South West to come and be challenged."