Record numbers turned out for a community fun run that raised thousands of pounds for Jewish charities - to run or simply to watch.

More than 3,000 people travelled to Rowley Lane, in Arkley, for the seventh annual Maccabi GB Community Fun Run on Sunday.

Organised by the Hendon-based Jewish sports charity, the day’s three fun runs raised money for 40 good causes with Jewish links.

Friends and family of some of the 1,500 runners enjoyed a fun day and food stalls in glorious sunshine.

Organiser Adam Goldsmith, marketing and events co-ordinator at Maccabi GB, said: “It was unbelievable. We broke all previous records.

“We haven’t counted it all but it looks like we will be breaking £250,000 raised. I think the weather helped. All the charities involved are really happy.”

Runners raised money for their hand-picked charities by collecting sponsorship for taking part in either of the day’s 1k, 5k and 10k races.

Mr Goldsmith says the event is growing year on year and shows no sign of slowing down.

He said: “We’re aiming to get to 5,000 people attending – it is a goal we want to achieve in the near future. It is certainly not out of reach.

“Our mission is to bring Jewish people of all backgrounds together through sport and in this case people are getting exercise, having fun and raising money for some great causes.”