NSPCC 60 Minute Challenge at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

John and Steph Sykes ran with children Josh, five, and Isla, one (Image: Archant)

The event saw runners take part in one of two sessions, Run Harder for those looking for a challenge and Run Together, for those wanting to run as a family or take it easy.

With participants ranging in age from one to 61, it was suitable for everyone – something the organisers were keen to create.

Francis McAllister, head of community events and fundraising, said: “A lot of mass participation events are either for elite runners or for families.

“This is suitable for both.”

Lee McMurray ran as part of his London Marathon training (Image: Archant)

The youngest participant was one-year-old Isla Sykes, who was pushed around in her buggy by dad John.

The 47-year-old from Hampton, who was also joined by wife Steph, 40, and son Josh, five, said: “It was hard but good fun, we did about four miles.

“We did it as my sister-in-law works for the NSPCC. My daughter stayed awake the whole time and my son had a good time.”

Lee McMurray, 35, from Victoria Park took part as preparation for a bigger challenge.

He said: “It went well, I did about 11k and I ran it all.

“I’m running the London Marathon for the NSPCC next year and this was the start of my training.”

All participants received a medal, while children were kept entertained by balloon modelling and a spotting challenge.

For more on the NSPCC 60 Minute Challenge, pick up next week’s Recorder.