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A record number of runners paced through Caerphilly as the town’s annual 2k and 10k races returned this morning – with thousands lining the streets to cheer them on.

With 2,500 runners taking part in the 10k, and 1,200 in the 2k, it was the second consecutive year the participation record was broken.

Welsh football legend Aaron Ramsey, who is from Caerphilly, was among the runners today, as was BBC weather presenter Sue Charles – who were among the thousands tackling a new-look course.

The new course, which is flatter than in previous years, was well received by runners, including race winners Dewi Griffiths and Lauren Kennard.

Griffiths, of Swansea Harriers running club, reached the finish line in a time of 30 minutes and four seconds. It was his fourth win from four attempts, having missed last year due to the birth of his daughter.

In second place was last year‘s winner, Jonathon Butler – making it a one-two finish for Swansea Harriers – with a time of 30 minutes and 19 seconds.

In third was Adam Bull, of Pontypridd Roadents, who achieved a time of 31 minutes 22 seconds.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer after his win, Griffiths said: “I always enjoy coming here. When I say I’m doing Caerphilly, the whole family want to come – even the dogs! It’s a great day out, good atmosphere, and good for the family.”

Speaking about the new course layout, he said: “It’s definitely quicker than it was. Unfortunately, I’m not in the same shape I was when I ran the course record two years ago, but I enjoyed it – there’s always a good atmosphere going through the town.”

Winning the women’s race this year was Lauren Kennard, of Worcester Athletics Club – who completed the race in 35 minutes and 48 seconds.

Finishing a close second was Donna Morris, of Builth and District, who had a time of 35 minutes and 56 seconds. Third place went to Lizzie Dimond, who ran it in 37 minutes and five seconds.

Kennard, who was running just her second Caerphilly 10k, said: “The course was better this year because it was less hilly, so it was good fun.”

Admitting she wasn’t expecting to win the women’s race, Kennard said: “I’m just trying to enjoy racing, have some fun with it, smile, and see what happens.

“The atmosphere through town was incredible – there were so many people. It really helps.”

The 2k race was held earlier in the day. Rory Collins was the first boy to cross the line, achieving a time of six minutes and 15 seconds. Alesha Santos was the first girl to finish the race, doing so with a time of six minutes and 44 seconds.

The event is organised and funded by Caerphilly County Borough Council.

Jared Lougher, the council’s sports and leisure services manager, praised the high turnout and told Caerphilly Observer: “I’ve said in previous years that we need the people to vote with their feet [to keep th event going] and they have this year – we sold out in record time.

“So as organisers, we’ve got to look and see if we can increase capacity again for next year, and give that opportunity to more people.

“I’ve also heard from my staff today that there’s record numbers out on the street supporting people. This event is really showing the best of Caerphilly and keeping us on the map.”

Speaking about the course changes, he said: “We’ve taken the hill out at the start and finish, which seems to be well welcomed. I spoke to some of the elite guys and they have said it’s been positive, but the feedback from the general public has been positive too, so we’ve done the right thing.”

Mr Lougher thanked the “tremendous” schools and sports clubs who took part in the event, as well as those who have worked hard behind the scenes to organise the event.

Got a picture from today’s 10k and 2k races? Email them to us at news@caerphilly.observer