THE Mayor of Test Valley was at the start line of an exciting fun run.

Cllr Alan Dowden was at the start line for the Boaz Fun Run at Hill Farm near Sutton Scotney, on Saturday, October 8.

The event was a chance for people to get together, enjoy the sunshine and raise money for the Boaz Project, which is an inclusive, farm-based charity set up to provide a brighter future for people with learning disabilities and autism.

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Participants took part in 2k, 5k and 10k fun runs, all dressed as a range of colourful characters, from donkeys to a flock of chickens and an archbishop. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities enjoyed the spectacular Test Valley countryside views out on the trails and received wooden eco-medals at the finish line.

Cllr Dowden said: "It was a great day with lots of support from groups and individuals. The weather was perfect and as well as starting off the races, I also enjoyed welcoming in the finishers.

“The Boaz Project is a wonderful place and I can see why those who live with learning difficulties enjoy helping out there.”

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The Boaz project has a 4.5-acre smallholding run on organic principles, producing high quality fruit, vegetables and flowers. Members work alongside volunteers and staff growing plants and taking care of the animals, including sheep, donkeys, guinea pigs and a flock of 120 free range egg-laying hens.

For more information contact: Test Valley Borough Council, Communications Officer, Lisa Phaure on lphaure@testvalley.gov.uk