Its origin is something of an enigma but that did not stop more than 150 people taking part in this year's special 30th anniversary Poppyline Marathon.

Usually 26 miles, with a 20 mile option, this year organisers treated fitness fanatics to a extra four miles in celebration of its birthday, taking in Felbrigg Park, Holt Country Park, Sheringham Park and the cliff tops from Weybourne to Sheringham.

Walkers started at Sheringham High School at 7am with runners and 20 mile walkers joining later at 9am.

Organiser Chelle Armour, of the Norfolk and Suffolk Long Distance Walkers Association, has been involved with the marathon for 10 years.

'Everyone was very excited and it was a wonderful day,' she said.

'Around 164 people took part, made up of half runners and half walkers. Almost all of the people who took part finished and just under half did the 30 mile route.

'We hope this event furthers the interest of those who enjoy walking and running.

'Also 25 per cent of the profits from the Poppyline Marathon will go towards local charities.'

Miss Armour added that the group had already raised money this year for the East Anglian Air Ambulance and the Norfolk and Suffolk Lowland Search and Rescue.

Vinnie Purdy, of Cromer, is a member of North Norfolk Beach Runners, and ran today's Poppyline Marathon to raise money for Norfolk charity Nelson's Journey.

This was also his 100th marathon.

The participants finished up at Sheringham High School, after passing five check points, where they were presented with a medal and certificate as well as a small meal.

• To sponsor Mr Purdy and support Nelson's Journey, a charity which helps bereaved children and young people, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/VinniePurdy.

• Do you know how the Poppyline Marathon started? Write to the Letter's Editor, with full details of name and address, at EDP, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich, NR1 1RE or email edpletters@archant.co.uk or North Norfolk News, 31 Church Street, Cromer, Norfolk, NR27 9ES or email nnnletters@archant.co.uk.