More than 800 joggers, skeletons, zombies and ghosts helped to raise tens of thousands of pounds towards the regeneration of one of Aberdeen’s “jewels in the crown”.
Around 300 youngsters and 500 adults dressed up in all manners of ghoulish costumes at the Dandara 5K event at Hazlehead Park on Saturday.
Organised by Friends of Hazlehead and Sport Aberdeen, the event – and its accompanying fundraising ball – raised more than £35,000 towards rejuvenating the paths, parks and facilities of park.
The 5K was won by Ronald Gauld in 17 minutes 29 seconds, with Tammy Wilson scoring being the female winner coming in shortly after at 18 minutes 58 seconds.
Amongst the hundreds of runners was former Dons captain Russell Anderson, and 20 employees from event sponsors Dandara.
Donald Shaw, chairman of the Friends of Hazlehead group, said the day wouldn’t have been as successful without the support of the Aberdeen business community.
Mr Shaw said: “We are thrilled that so many runners of all ages and abilities made their way to Hazlehead Park on Saturday to take part in the event.
“The fundraising ball was a tremendous success, with donations including gift aid raising around £27,500.”
The huge sum of cash raised will go towards a number of ongoing development projects at the park, including the replanting of the Queen Mother Rose Garden, the upgrading of core paths, and sign-posted running routes.
Money is also being spent on renovating and improving the park’s popular Pet’s Corner.
Mr Shaw said: “Hazlehead park is a jewel in Aberdeen’s crown and it’s fantastic that so many people were able to come along and enjoy this wonderful facility, and in turn contribute to our mission of ensuring that it can be enjoyed for many years to come.”
