Dave Bignell (Bristol Town and Country Harriers) was at The Queens Arms in Bleadon to present this year’s donation of £4,000 to Jim Hardcastle (Mendip Hills Fund Manager) (Image: Supplied)

A gruelling ultramarathon in Somerset has raised thousands to support conservation and community work.

The Butcombe Trail Ultramarathon, held on Saturday, April 25, and organised by the Bristol Town and Country Harriers (TACH), took place across Somerset’s Mendip Hills and raised £4,000 for the Mendip Hills Fund.

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Jim Hardcastle, manager of the Mendip Hills National Landscape team, said: "A donation like this helps to keep the hills a really special place for everyone to enjoy, whether running 50 miles or sitting peacefully and enjoying the views.

"Huge thanks to the organisers, volunteers and all the amazing runners that took part."

The event featured 50-mile and 50km races through rugged countryside.

Sam Tabberner won the 50-mile open race in seven hours and 52 minutes, breaking the course record by 15 seconds, while Charlotte Robinson won the women’s race in nine hours and 49 minutes, beating the previous record by 13 minutes.

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Tim McDowell took the 50km open race in four hours and 51 minutes, and Joe Bereza won the women’s race in five hours and 12 minutes, setting a new record by eight minutes.

Organisers said the race was made possible thanks to the efforts of TACH volunteers and support from event partners including Butcombe Brewing Co, Mendip Activity Centre and Wrington Vale Osteopath.

Runners rated the event 4.9 out of five.

The funds raised will support conservation and community projects in the Mendip Hills.

The Butcombe Trail Ultramarathon event will return in 2027, with more information and entry details available on its website.