Runners and their dogs take part in fun run

Helen Reglen, 50, from Ellingham with her 10-year-old wirehaired vizsla called George. Bungay Groggy Doggy Race 2017. Photo: George Ryan (Image: Archant)

At Bungay Common near Old Railway Road nearly 60 runners and their pets took part in the annual Boxing Day Groggy Doggy cross country run.

Across the other races, including the junior section, nearly 300 people competed.

Beth Bell, 20 with her terrier cross Olly and Dane Sayer, 28, with his papillon Tilly. Bungay Groggy Doggy Race 2017. Photo: George Ryan (Image: Archant)

The races were started by the town reeve Stephen Went and those in the main race were soon making a colourful ribbon around the banks of the River Waveney in bright sunshine, in muddy conditions.

They completed two laps of the picturesque course, about five miles in all, while those with dogs completed one lap.

A group with their dogs for the Bungay Groggy Doggy Race 2017. Photo: George Ryan (Image: Archant)

Many took part in fancy dress with a fair few Father Christmases about and there were prizes for the best dressed and the muddiest.

The race has been organised by the Bungay Black Dog Running Club for nearly 30 years.

Ellayne Hilton with dog Herbie, Mark Elflett and Ian Chilley with dog Bailey. Bungay Groggy Doggy Race 2017. Photo: George Ryan (Image: Archant)

Town mayor Mary Matthews presented the prizes at the end.

James Kershaw, 20, from Norton Subcourse, with cocker spaniel Alan. Bungay Groggy Doggy Race 2017. Photo: George Ryan (Image: Archant)

Ian Gardner, 60, from Ditchingham, with his four-year-old English setter Blue. Bungay Groggy Doggy Race 2017. Photo: George Ryan (Image: Archant)

Beccles residents Donna Mills 53 with collie Alf and Joe Bean, 25, with 'sprocker' Bob. Bungay Groggy Doggy Race 2017. Photo: George Ryan (Image: Archant)

Saxlingham dwellers Dan and Alfie Chapman, 30 and 25 respectively, with Bernie and Noodle. Bungay Groggy Doggy Race 2017. Photo: George Ryan (Image: Archant)

Kathryn Moore from Morningthorpe with lab cross Amy and Kevin Keeler from Hempnall with 'sprollie' Dillon. Bungay Groggy Doggy Race 2017. Photo: George Ryan (Image: Archant)

Stephanie Hoyle, 52, from Diss with her 12-year-old spaniel Minstrel. Bungay Groggy Doggy Race 2017. Photo: George Ryan (Image: Archant)