GALLERY: Runners take on Cannock Rotary Club 10k race

People of all ages lined up on Marquis Drive ready for Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate Amanda Milling to sound the air horn and start the race on Saturday.

The event regularly raises about £3,000 for the Rotary Club, and proceeds will be split between the Midlands Air Ambulance and other charities.

Secretary Harold Bould said: "We have about 90 people pre-registered and about 50 turn up on the day.

"Half of the money raised today goes to the Midlands Air Ambulance and the other half goes to other charities.

"We give some money to people to help with fuel costs, clothes to the homeless and a goodie bag to families too.

"We easily raise £3,000 from the 10k each year.

"This is classed as a very demanding course, it's very hilly."

And Brian Riley, Rotary district governor, said members of a number of Rotary Clubs from across the West Midlands had come to help out.

He said: "We have members from Burntwood, Aldridge, Walsall, it's a community activity and a good fun day and all for good causes."

One runner was feeling nervous about choosing the course for her first race after three years out due to injury.

Hazel Smallman, 56, has previously run it in 2015 and 2016.

The City of Wolverhampton College worker said: "When I was driving here I was nervous seeing all the hills, but I have enjoyed it in the past, it's a lovely course."

Meanwhile trio Stewart Barnes from Lichfield, Phil Lawford from Stafford and Richard Harris from Great Barr were taking it on for the first time.

Stewart, 53, said: "We're planning to stick together, until we get competitive.

"We're aiming to complete it in about the hour mark."

Phil, 48, added: "It's another medal to the collection."

And 23-year-old Megan Connor from Hednesford had only tackled one 10k before but decided last minute to join in.

The chef said: "I drive part of the course to get to work so I thought I'd join in.

"I did Stafford 10k in September, that was my first and I enjoyed it.

"I like the camaraderie, everyone gets a cheer and supported, it doesn't matter if you have someone waiting for you at the finish line."