Hundreds of runners got muddy to raise money for Rennie Grove Hospice Care.

Six hundred supporters of the charity took part in teams, overcoming 28 challenging obstacles over a five-mile course.

The ‘Muddy Mucker’ event is expected to drum up more than £30K, which will help local cancer patients and those with other life-limiting illnesses.

The challenge did not place emphasis on time but on teamwork and camaraderie between participants.

Colleagues, families, friends and fitness fanatics grouped together to take on the course.

St Albans-based participant Lucinda Archer-Jones, who took part with husband, Stephen, said: ““It was such a great atmosphere, with everyone helping each other out. I’ll definitely be doing this again next year, and hopefully bring a full team too!”

The couple had previously run the Herts 10K for the charity and were keen to try a new challenge.

A team going by the name of ‘Falls on the Run’ took part in memory of the wife of 72-year-old Geoff Fall, from St Albans. Mr Fall asked his children and other family members to get involved to support the charity which cared for her. They have raised £2,265 through their fundraising page

A St Albans team called ‘Valeries’, donned fairy wings and halos. It was captained by Kirsten Whitehouse who volunteers with Rennie Grove and is familiar with the care provided for local patients and families, since her father-in-law was supported by the charity.

She said: “Between the seven of us, we have raised around £400. It’s such a good cause.”

Gemma Martin, senior events fundraiser at Rennie Grove, said: “We were delighted with the response, both in the run up to the event and on the day.

“There was a fantastic atmosphere and everyone joined in with enthusiasm - right from the energetic warm-ups, through all the obstacles and to the finish line.

“There are so many individuals and local businesses that we would like to thank for supporting this event and making it happen.

“The money raised will make a massive difference to the patients that we care for and their families.”

The event took place in Green Park, Aston Clinton, Buckinghamshire. Planning is already underway for the 2015 Muddy Mucker. Full details at www.renniegrove.org/muddymucker