A “FANTASTIC” fun run in aid of a Bury charity is set to far surpass its original fundraising target.

Around 50 people took part in the sponsored event in Close Park on Sunday in aid of Annabelle’s Challenge, with organiser John Taylor hoping to collect £1,000.

But having seen three star fundraisers take the total to £960 themselves, the Muay Thai instructor is hoping to reach double his initial target.

The 50-year-old, who runs classes from the Phoenix Gym in Bradley Fold and IJ’s Gym in the Constellation Mill, is also hoping to make the event an annual challenge after getting such a positive response to the idea from gym members.

He said: “It was a superb day. There was a fantastic turnout. There were a few people in the end who were unable to run it on the day, but still offered to help us with the fundraising.

“On Sunday, three people handed in their money and that came to £960, which is absolutely fantastic.

“My first target was £1,000, so to be so close to that already when we have only had three people give their money in is incredible.

“I don’t think everyone will have been able to raise that much, but if we can get up to £2,000 that would be great.

“I would definitely like to keep fundraising for Annabelle in the future, and we are hoping to make the run an annual event now.”

Mr Taylor, of Widcombe Drive, Bolton, was inspired to organise the event after meeting Annabelle, the seven-year-old who the Bury-based charity is named after.

Annabelle suffers from Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (VEDS), an incurable condition that puts her at daily risk of her internal organs and arteries spontaneously rupturing.

A charity spokesman said: “A huge well done and thank you to everyone who took part in the run for Annabelle’s Challenge, including all our amazing volunteers.

“On behalf of our community We would like to say how grateful we are for the turnout, helping to raise awareness of Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.”