ALMOST 350 runners pounded the streets for the annual Headington5 road race.

The five-mile route this morning saw competitors start and finish in Boults Lane recreation Ground, Marston, going up the A40, then down past Cutteslowe Park, Summer Fields School and along Marston Ferry Road.

The event, now in its fourth year, was organised by Headington RoadRunners but open to all abilities, including wheelchair racers.

Organiser Steve Cowls said 348 people took part, adding: "It was a very competitive race. It started with a bit of drizzle but that tapered off and in the end it was great."

The fastest runner was Mark Worringham, from Reading Roadrunners, with a time of 26 min 03 sec.

Georgie Bruinvels, of Aldershot, Farnham and District Athletic Club, was the fastest women at 28.26.

Proceeds from the run will support Oxford & District Sports and Recreational Association for the Disabled (OXSRAD).

OXSRAD, a leisure centre on Marsh Lane, relies on grants and donations on top of its membership fees to be able to offer the sporting services to people of all abilities.

From those with severe physical and mental disabilities to those recovering from injury, it provides specialist equipment and specialist coaches to cater for their needs.