Runners brave cold as 9,000 join biggest ever charity dash

A record 9,000 participants pounded the Leeds pavements in the 2012 Abbey Dash.

The event on a crisp autumn day was raising cash for Age UK’s Spread The Warmth campaign and its befriending service.

First back was Luke Cragg, of Leeds City Athletic Club, in 29:29.

He just sneaked ahead of Josh Lilly, who finished in 29:32, and Mohammed Abu Rezeq in 29:50.

Leeds’s own Susan Partridge was third among the women with 33:20, Rebecca Robinson was second in 33:09 and the first was Alyson Dixon in 32:53.

Alyson, from Sunderland, said she was delighted.

“I was hoping for a personal best, but not as fast as I did.

“It’s great to see so many people out. It’s good for running but also great when it’s a big charity race.”

Lydia Curran, senior events manager for Age UK, said: “We are delighted. We knew the people of Leeds would be really supportive of the cause.

“There are older people who are lonely this winter and we are making a real difference, and that’s why so many people are getting behind us.”

Before the main race got under way, speedy youngsters got their chance to shine in the 2km junior race.

And it was a family affair for winners, 13-year-old Billy Dawson and 12-year-old Stella Cross, who are cousins.