IT was a day of mud, sweat and celebratory beers for the brave athletes who took on this year's Prestwich Challenge on Sunday.

Now in its eighth year, Sunday's event pitted runners against an eight-mile course, filled with cargo nets, forests and a pond, through which entrants had to wade through, right up to their necks.

A total of 334 people — including 73 competitors taking part in teams — battled the course, which started out from Sedgley Park Rugby Club in Park Lane, Whitefield.

The men's winner was Czech Republic-born George Gavura, who crossed the finish line in 68 minutes.

Laura Lombard won the woman's event, finishing in 79 minutes, while the winning men's team of Mark Earnshaw, James Boylan, Mark Sankey and Ross Gandy finished in 92 minutes.

The first mixed team - Brad Tuff, Dave Perry, Lauren Maxwell and Phil Beard - completed in 100 minutes and the first women's team comprising Clare Smith, Ellen Stephenson, Lynne Berbatiosis, Lydia Greasley, made it to the finish line in 109 minutes.

Glenn Martin, one of the organisers, said: "It was a lot of fun and everyone who took part gave it a good go.

"It didn't rain and wasn't too hot so the conditions were ideal. People seemed to like the obstacles, especially the pond, and we were pleased with how the day turned out.

"We had as many entrants as last year and about 350 people watching too."

Mr Martin added: "Everyone works hard to make the day a success and I'd like to thank all our marshals, volunteers and sponsors for their help."

The Prestwich Challenge is set to raise about £5,000, which will be split between several good causes, including families of disabled children nominated by Bury Child Development Centre, based at Fairfield Hospital.