CROWDS turned out in force to cheer on runners yesterday afternoon, despite the heavens opening for the 10k Poole Festival of Running race.

The weather was kinder in the morning for the Minithon and Born to Run 5k events but rain showers soaked runners during the main event.

However, it failed to dampen their determination to raise vital funds for the town’s maternity hospital and neo-natal unit.

Organised by Poole Runners and the Borough of Poole, the annual event at Poole Park, which has fast become one of the South’s most significant road running events, attracted a mix of serious and fun-runners.

This year entrants came from as far as Kenya to take part.

The 2010 event raised more than £8,500 towards the purchase of a cardiotocograph machine for Poole hospital which monitors baby’s heartbeat and mother’s contractions during labour.

And organisers hope this year’s Festival of Running will raise even more for the worthy cause.

Poole hospital maternity unit head of midwifery Sandra Chitty told the Daily Echo: “We very much appreciate the effort and time that so many people give so generously on our behalf.”