From there, the field were able to take in the countryside scenery around the River Ribble, before coming back through the park and then on to Market Street to finish in front of the city centre crowds.

Podium regulars Mohammad Abu-Rezeq and Kirsty Longley showed they are still the ones to beat in the North West with the pair both notching up victories. Abu-Rezeq, top at last month’s City of Salford 10K, never really looked in trouble as he crossed the line in an impressive 30:58. Salford Harriers’ Adam Slodowicz was his closest competitor in 34:30, followed by Robert Affleck.

Longley, meanwhile, also won by a considerable margin, clocking 35:49 – a time that also gave her 7th overall. Sophie Pilkington (42:25) and Natalie Iddon (42:37) were second and third respectively.

While the rescheduling of the 10K no doubt caused disruption to some, organisers Sports Tours reacted quickly to provided competitors with a new race date and it was clear that the 1100 field of runners were in high spirits.

This was echoed by Tina Eley, who commented: “We came from Birmingham and were amazed by the support of the people, fantastic it was; route was tough but good and the marshals were very encouraging, loved it well done to you all. Very well organised so glad we travelled to this one.”

The Preston event was staged under the new Running Bee Foundation banner, an initiative which returns all race profits to community projects. Founded and supported by Sports Tours International, the charity aims to improve the health and well being of local residents and to help tackle the challenge of childhood obesity.