Runners and spectators filled the streets of Mansfield for the first Reach Mansfield 10K, helping to raise money for good causes.

Organisers hailed the event, created in place of the Mansfield Half Marathon that ended in 2011 after 30 years, a success with 631 runners taking part.

It was put together by local charity Reach Learning Disability with Mansfield 2020 Business Development group, Mansfield Harriers and Mansfield District Council, and attracted charity runners and elite athletes competing in the AAA County Championships.

The race was won by Mansfield Harriers’ England international Mark Johnson (44), of Mansfield. in 32 minutes 10 seconds.

He said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed myself and thank spectators for all their support and organisers for such a fantastic event, which is sure to put Mansfield on the map.

“I hope the event will become a permanent fixture in Mansfield’s sporting calendar and encourage further interest in running.

“I have been resting through injury so have only had three weeks of training so I am extremely pleased with my time.

“My next big challenge will be qualifying for England selection on 26th September and I used this run as part of my training.”

It was a double celebration for the winner with his wife, Kahli Johnson, running in the female veteran 35 category, the first Harrier woman home in 42.07.

Former Mansfield Harrier Emmie Collinge won the women’s race.

Formerly from Newstead Abbey and now living in Italy as a translator, she completed the run in 34.06.

“I was born in Mansfield so could not resist taking part in the town’s newest running event,” she said.

“As a regular hill runner I enjoyed the route, which displayed Mansfield’s finest scenery, and am extremely pleased with my time.

“I hope it becomes a reoccurring sporting event in Mansfield.”

Steve Shatwell, Reach Learning Disability chief executive, said: “To have over 600 runners and crowds of spectators support the first Reach Mansfield 10K is fantastic.

“We would like to thank everyone who contributed towards a successful event.

“I am delighted with the event’s smooth running and hope that it will become a permanent fixture in Mansfield.”

The race was started and run by Mansfield Harriers’ president, Mansfield Town Football Club owner John Radford.

Former Mansfield Town mascot Doug Carroll (Sammy The Stag) said: “It was a tough run in the heat wearing the Sammy The Stag costume but it was worth it.

“Well done to (everyone for) putting this event on.

“It’s about time we had a race back in Mansfield and it has been great.”

Runner-up in the men’s race was Gareth Lowe in 32.30 ahead of Richard Robinson 32.45.

Sarah Lowery was runner-up in the women’s race in 37.58 with Rebecca Taylor third in 38.31.

The Notts AAA was won by Mark Johnson from Richard Robinson and Stuart King (Heanor AC), of Kirkby Woodhouse, 33.40.