A record field of 2,150 runners had signed up for the event, organised by the Steve Prescott Foundation, which started and finished at the home of Saints.

The conditions were poor, with driving rain and wind - but many simply dug in and kept with the against-the-odds spirit of the charity founded by Steve, who passed away in 2013.

St Helens-based John Ashcroft was first past the post in a time of 31mins 50secs, while Catherine Howard, of Knowlsey Harriers was the female victor.

There were huge cheers as Neil Prescott, brother of Steve, raced home in under 40 minutes.

There was a big effort from supporters too, who still turned out in force despite the soggy weather, to roar on encouragment inside the stadium.

Family and friends wrapped up warm waiting for their loved ones to pass the finish line, many in support of various charities as well as SPF itself.

Winning runner, Liverpool Harriers, John Ashcroft, 24 and from West Park, said: "It’s amazing, you don’t really know what to expect and I have done quite a few 10ks here now.

“But to come first despite the horrible weather is great, I’m really made up and the crowd support was brilliant too.”

Event organiser Martin Blondel, from the Steve Prescott Foundation, said: “It’s great that around 2,150 people have turned up on a day like today and it shows how popular the event is.

“It’s a great way to celebrate the 10th year and to have so many people taking part for various charities is incredible.”

My little boy didn't make it easier for you but you did it @BuffsHead #badweather #youdidit 🎗💙💪 well done everyone x

— Claire Haggerty (@cbeech73) March 5, 2017

Worth every stride... @sthelens10krun @StevePrescott1  Thanks to all for another great and very wet event 😂👍👏 pic.twitter.com/Pz045T98lh

— Gary (@gary4463) March 5, 2017

Thankyou to ALL runners & marshals for making our 7th 10k run a huge success! You're continuing the gr8 legacy of @StevePrescott1. #BeProud

— GPW St Helens 10K (@sthelens10krun) March 5, 2017

Bananaman, a Roman Centurian and the fastest time was 31 minutes. I think that was my 200m time at school! Well don't @StevePrescott1 10k! pic.twitter.com/pNtIVMxesL

— Sev Gomez-Aspron (@CllrSevGA) March 5, 2017

The mayor and mayoress of St Helens, Councillors Dave and Jeanette Banks added: “It’s wonderful seeing so many people taking part today, it shows the community spirit of the town, not just the runners but the supporters as well.

“We would like to say a big thank you to all that have taken part and made St Helens proud and to the organisers because it’s a fantastic event.”

Brilliant day in St Helens for the 10k Run! pic.twitter.com/7RvIyulhpm

— Ged Burns (@ged_burns) March 5, 2017

Samantha Carr

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