HUNDREDS of children from across Reading have been recognised for their participation in Green Park's mini marathon.

The budding athletes gathered at the Green Park conference centre on April 24.

They were there to be recognised for their achievements in the 2017 Green Park Schools challenge which formed part of the Vitality Reading Half Marathon.

More than 2,000 children from schools across Berkshire completed the 3km run in March, which started in Green Park and finished in the Madejski Stadium.

Judith Manson, Race Director, said: “We really look forward to this evening every year and the enthusiasm from the schools, and the support from friends and family, is always fantastic.

"As well as the children, who were thrilled to win awards, it was also clear how truly proud the parents and teachers were of their achievements. It’s brilliant to see so many active children who love running, a passion we hope will continue for many years.

"Congratulations to every participant, we look forward to welcoming you all again.”

Prizes were awarded across a range of age categories including; U7, U9, U11, U13 and U15. The top three performing school teams were presented with trophies, as well as the winning boys and girls in each age group.

For the big finale, the overall winners were announced, which for the girls included Georgia Hayes (1st), Naomi Harris (2nd) and Renee Whalley (3rd). The overall winners for the boys were; Shreyas Kanyady (1st), Joseph Mott (2nd) and Ben Rollings (3rd).