RUNNING any distance on Sunday morning deserves a round of applause.

And the Swindon crowds were out in force to give just that. I plumped for the 4.2-mile fun run but wished I went for the big one because the atmosphere was so fantastic.

Even without much training, I reckon the rousing cheers alone would have got me round the course.

People of all ages and running abilities entered all three races, making the event truly universal.

Fortunately the weather was kind to us a few optimists even wore sunglasses.

And the route wasn't too bad either. There's something very liberating about running on the road. Sweaty feet at last got one over on lazy motorists who hold sway every other day.

I really enjoyed the bit round Coate Water because it was a rare opportunity to speed around without tripping over dogs, anglers or dawdlers. Unfortunately we returned to the road before passing the ice cream kiosk.

The time flew by and I also managed a reasonable pace.

Sprinting for the finish line, I was only beaten by one woman (and 20-odd men). But the tremendous community spirit was by far the biggest triumph and I hope to go the extra mile (or nine) next year.