PARTICIPANTS from across the UK descended on a Chepstow farm to brave the searing heat and a number of obstacles to raise money for charity.

The Bounce 5km run took place on Saturday, June 17, starting in the morning at 8.45am with events, including live music, lasting throughout the day and into the evening.

Under the guise of an army assault course, the meandering route at Howick Farm in Itton incorporated bales of hay and inflatable slides to test hundreds of runners.

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The course also included woodland sections while the runners scrambled under cargo nets and tip-toed through tyres.

Suitable to runners of all abilities and spanning across a range of ages, teams travelled from as far away as Buckinghamshire to take part in the charity event.

The Welsh Air Ambulance and Cancer Research UK were the two main charities sponsored by the 5k race.

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"It is always worthwhile to do something in support of a great cause,” said Ryan Jones, originally from Chepstow, but came over from Bristol for the race.

"The Welsh Air Ambulance do amazing things in saving the lives of those in the most life-threatening of situations – you can’t really underestimate the difference the organisation can make to people’s lives.

"The weather didn't help as all the obstacles were hot to the touch but I would have been more difficult had it been raining.

"It would have been like an inflatable fun session at a swimming baths.”

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The runners were set off in waves in an attempt to stop the bunching up between the obstacle stations, and the event took on a carnival atmosphere, with camping places also available to participants.

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Rebekah Wilson, of Abergavenny, did not participate in the run but came to support those who were.

"It is good to see all these people coming together, in support of the air ambulance, Cancer Research or whichever cause,” she said.

"A lot of different causes are getting vital funding and even if you don't know someone directly affected by cancer or has had to use an air ambulance, someone out there will.

"It has been a fun day - everyone has been in great spirits but I guess how can you not be when it is as gorgeous as this. Even if there is a serious side to the event of course.

“The other good thing is that there’s been no emphasis on times. It is all about taking it at your own pace and having fun.”

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