Almost 100 people ran off their festive excesses by taking part in a 'mid-Christmas blowout' and helped to raise about £2,000 for charity at the same time.

Neil Featherby, former professional runner and owner of Sportlink running and fitness centre in Taverham, said the 15th Felthorpe Boxing Day Hare and Hounds Run was the best one yet.

In total 17 teams and 96 runners, all kitted out in fancy dress, yesterday chased down Mr Featherby who as always was the Boxing Day hare.

Mr Featherby said: 'It was absolutely fantastic.

'It's fun; a mid-Christmas blowout – but it's grown over the last few years to what it is now.

'We had some of the best runners in Norfolk to those who just like to run for fun. It was a 100pc fun run with the emphasis on having a good time, a bit of a blowout and helping to raise some money for some good causes as well.'

The race, which is never the same course, but has certain features that reappear such as Drayton Drewray, which is essentially a bog, has helped raise more than £20,000 for local charities and those in the community over the past decade and a half.

It is thought at least another £2,000 was raised from yesterday's event which is to be split among a number of different causes, including Felthorpe Village Hall, where the race finished, and Hallswood Animal Sanctuary as well as local dog rescue centres.

Runners competing in the event were also in with a chance of receiving recognition for what they were wearing as well as how they ran with an award for the best dressed team.

Mr Featherby said there was plenty of competition in that respect.

He said: 'I say it every year, but it gets better every year. I couldn't believe some of the costumes.'

Have you got an inspiring charity story? Email peter.walsh@archant.co.uk