Hundreds of people enjoyed bright spring sunshine as they ran through Manchester’s Spinningfields to raise money for Sport Relief.

They took part in the Sainsbury’s-sponsored mile-long dash, supporting disadvantaged people in Britain and abroad.

The runners – watched by well-wishers – took part in a group warm-up before running a route which wove through Spinningfields.

Musicians and entertainers added some cheer, while restaurants provided refreshments.

Similar events took place across the country and the charity raised more than £31m over weekend.

A spokesman said: “A huge thank you to absolutely everyone who took part. All the money will be spent by Comic Relief to make a real difference to people’s lives, at home and across the world’s poorest countries.”

Nationally, more than 165,000 people did a mile for Sport Relief – including Tory leader David Cameron and paraplegic Iraq veteran Major Phil Packer. Rival soap stars ran their own race – won by Emmerdale actor Anthony Quinlan.

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