THE Rainford 10k proved a great success again as more than 300 took on the course.

The annual event was launched in 2013 to honour the memory of George Faulkner, a 17-year-old ex-Rainford schoolboy who died after colliding with a car while crossing the East Lancs Road in 2008.

And hundreds of runners took to the village's streets in Sunday's early autumn sunshine to complete the route, with George's parents Sue and John and brother Bob among the runners once again.

Proceeds from the race, which started at Rainford High went towards charities The Compassionate Friends and SANDS.

A shorter 1k 'fun run' also took place on the day.

"It went very well and we had a fun day," said Terry Bates, whose fitness company Be Ur Best organise the event.

"We had Martin Murray start the race with the starting gun and we're pleased with the overall event and had great feedback from marshals and volunteers.

"We had a course record and a blind runner took part. Our thanks go to Rainford High school."

Martin Swensson picked up the George Faulkner trophy coming first with a time of 33 minutes and four seconds, with James Thompson in second and Jake Littlehales third.

Sam Wardle topped the youth category in 36 minutes eight seconds. Francois Rafferty was the top veteran man and Gill Lee the best over 40s female.

The St Helens Striders won the top team award.