In pictures and video: Vibrant display at Stafford Common for Katharine House Splatter Dash

Scores of runners gathered at Stafford Common to take part in the Katharine House Splatter Dash, which returned for the third year to much delight.

Bosses were hoping to raise £50,000 for the hospice with the event, which saw runners start off in bright white clothing before being covered in powdered paint.

The grand total is still being tallied up, but staff said it went well – the usual parents' orders of youngsters remaining clean going right out the window for the event.

Lisa Carson, events fundraiser, said: "It was a fantastic, fun event suitable for all ages and abilities. The hospice does have a genuine need to raise vital funds so that we can continue to provide free care to local people, so everyone who took part in this event has made a difference."

Katharine House Hospice provides free care for local people living with a progressive illness and also offers support for their families.

The hospice began as a 'Hospice at Home' service in 1989 and now provides a range of free services offering help, care and support to people with advanced, life-limiting conditions both at the hospice and in the community.

These conditions include Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease, End Stage Renal failure and cancer. Each year it costs the Hospice £2.7 million to provide care. Around 75 per cent of that cash is stumped up by kind-hearted local people and businesses who donate the required funds.

Steve Roulstone, director of event sponsors Castle Estates, said: "We are very proud to be part of Splatter Dash 2016 and to be supporting such a worthy cause."

Holly Addison, corporate fundraiser for Katharine House, said: "I'd like to give special thanks to Castle Estates for sponsoring Splatter Dash for the second year running. Their sponsorship means that even more money raised from the event will go directly to providing free care for local people with life limiting illnesses."