ORGANISERS of the hit Run the Runway event at Prestwick Airport say they are "thrilled" with its success - after raising more than £150,000 for a trio of charities.

The airport welcomed 1,000 enthusiastic participants who took on the unique challenge of running or walking along the airport’s main runways at sunrise.

The unprecedented event raised an impressive £150,000, to be shared equally among three vital local charities: Ayrshire Hospice, The Beatson, and Doing it for Daniel Foundation.

The event offered participants a choice of a 5k or 10k run traversing both runways, or a 5k walk, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the airfield in the early morning light.

Despite the chilly start, with check-in beginning at 6am, spirits were high as the runway transformed into a course that combined fitness, community spirit, and fundraising.

Four pipers from the Loch Ryan Pipe Band then led the runners up to the airside control post.

The event kicked off with an introduction by the airport's human resources director, Sonia Rafferty.

Following her words, the airport’s CEO, Ian Forgie, joined Brian Caplan, Daniel’s dad from the Doing it for Daniel Foundation, to lead the official countdown to begin the run.

(Image: Prestwick Airport) Sixteen-year-old Nicholas Latto was first to cross the finish line, winning the 5k run in an impressive 18 minutes and 10 seconds.

In the 10k category, Lewis Ross crossed the finish line first, completing the route in a remarkable 33 minutes and 36 seconds.

The success of Run the Runway was made possible by the dedicated efforts of more than 180 volunteers, including more than 100 airport staff, representatives from the three beneficiary charities and the Police Youth Volunteers.

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere airside was Robert McLaughlin PT instructor, who led everyone in a thorough warm-up session and the 60-strong Rock Choir performed at the start and finish line.

In addition, the Rapid Relief Team provided much-needed support with breakfast rolls and hot beverages, ensuring that participants and volunteers were well-fed at the end of the charity.

The inaugural Run the Runway set a high bar for future charity runs and after the success of Saturday’s event, the airport’s charity committee is keen to host another.

Sonia Rafferty, Prestwick Airport’s human resources director, said: “We are thrilled with the incredible turnout and the amount raised for these amazing charities.

"The event couldn’t have gone ahead without the many staff volunteers who came in on their day off, started early for their shift or stayed on after their shift finished to ensure we had enough airport personnel to ensure a successful event.

"The team spirit on the days leading up to and on the day was superb. Some, including our CEO, took part in the run.

"A huge thank you to the charity volunteers, DJ, pipers and Rock Choir who created a fantastic atmosphere, and of course to our Key Sponsor Lagan Airfield Maintenance Ltd.

"We’re also incredibly grateful to the Rapid Relief Team for their generous support with food.”

Prestwick Airport’s charity committee will now decide whether to run it every year or every two years, continuing to support local charities and strengthen community ties.