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HUNDREDS of fun runners were showered in dazzling powder paint at a spectacular summer fundraiser this weekend.

People of all ages enjoyed the thrills and spills of Colourama in Durham City on Saturday, raising vital funds for St Cuthbert’s Hospice.

Participants embarked on the 5K route around Aykley Heads in pristine Hospice t-shirts but –thanks to an army of volunteer paint throwers- it was not long before they were sporting the rainbow.

This year, as well as being covered in bright non-toxic powder paint, the runners and walkers had the option to take on obstacles, including a waterslide, hay bales and cargo nets.

There was also a fun-filled Zumba-style warm up to get everyone in the party mood.

Last year, Colourama raised £70,000 for the Durham City Hospice and it is hoped this year’s event, sponsored by Safe Families for Children and Swinburne Maddison, will prove just as successful.

Nicola Wilson-Austin, from Chester-le-Street, was one of a number of people taking part in memory of a loved one who was cared for at the Hospice.

Her much-loved father, Norman Wilson, died in the In Patient Unit on January 4.

Nicola said: “The date of Colourama 2016 fell on the fifth month anniversary of dad’s passing so it’s been an emotional day but taking part has meant we’ve been able to channel our loss into something positive. Thanks to our generous sponsors, we’ve raised funds for the amazing care at St Cuthbert’s Hospice in my dad’s honour. Dad would have laughed at us all wearing tutus and spattered in paint. It’s been a great day.”

To sponsor Nicola, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Nicola-Wilson-Austin

Sheela Joy, Senior Community and Events Fundraiser at St Cuthbert’s Hospice, said: “It was an amazing day and wonderful to see so many people having a go at the obstacles.

“Fundraising events like Colourama are extremely important to the Hospice, as they enable us to continue providing palliative care and bereavement support to the people of County Durham. I would like to thank everyone who has supported the event, especially our wonderful volunteers and the headline sponsors Safe Families for Children and Swinburne Maddison.”

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