A RECORD number of fundraisers put their best foot forward for good causes.

Despite the rain threatening to dampen spirits, more than 700 people walked the Test Way, bringing in thousands of pounds for various charities – the biggest ever turnout for the annual event.

Most reached the finish line before the showers arrived, but some got a drenching as they arrived at Romsey War Memorial Park.

Sunday’s marathon walk took fundraisers along a 25.5-mile stretch of the Test Way, between St Mary Bourne, near Andover, and Romsey.

Neill Beasley, from the Rotary Club of Romsey Test, which organises the event, said: “Some walkers got very wet towards the end and the first to finish, Leo Poulter, ran it.

“He did it in four hours and 40 minutes. He was amazing.

“He said he hit a wall at six miles and then got into his stride.”

Money will go towards several charities, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Service.

For more information about the fundraiser, visit walkthetestway.org.uk.