A popular event in Dalmellington has raised around £8,000 for charity, organisers have revealed.
The 10th annual Hillbilly 10k run took part in Dalmellington on Sunday, February 18, with hundreds of people gathering under starter's orders to race for Cancer Research UK.
Hundreds got involved to take part in the popular race hosted by Butterfly Events, an Ayrshire-based voluntary organisation committed to arranging events in aid of Cancer Research UK.
The annual event is held in Dalmellington, the home of organisers Lorna, Brian and David.
Lorna Dempsey started fundraising following the death of a close friend to breast cancer.
After another wonderful year that included a trail through various parts of the village, including Craigengillan Estate, a total of £8,000 was raised for charity.
Thanking those who took part, Lorna said: "I would like to thank you so much for coming along and supporting our Hillbilly 10k, on behalf of Cancer Research UK, a few weeks ago, on our 10th anniversary year.
"It was so amazing to have more publicity on our event to show the whole of Ayrshire how fabulous it is and well supported.
"We sang Happy Birthday, saw eight Hillbilly VIPs being crowned, Rennie Dance Academy danced up the hills, and we concluded with a new King of the Hill, Jonathon Downey, lifting the main Doon Valley Leisure Cup.
"We cannot believe since our first year in 2015, with 82 runners, we have developed our race into one of the top 10 races in Scotland, selling out in one hour and 27 minutes."
Lorna added: "We are overjoyed at this response and proud of what we have created, however without your support it cannot run at all.
"Our 400 runners all loved the event again and many supported our fundraising online or bringing donations to allow us to raise a fabulous £8,000.
"We also had business sponsorship from Queens Court Dental, Cherry Soda & Micks Motor Services, Dalmellington.
"This year marks our 18th year of organising fun, exciting, affordable events for everyone whilst raising much needed awareness & funds for Cancer Research UK.
"This event has allowed us to reach £531,000 raised since we began in 2006 which has been fully donated to our charity."
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