They came from far and wide for the running – as well as the cake and the beer.

More than 700 turned out for the annual Harvel 5 race, which is organised by Harvel Hash House Harriers running club.

Members meet regularly at the Amazon & Tiger in Harvel Street, Meopham, to go out and pound the roads and footpaths around the village.

Amateur runners from across Kent and beyond turned up, joining in a mass warm-up before setting off. First over the finish line was Peter Tucker, of Blackheath & Bromley Harriers. The ladies winner was Maria Heslop, who is a member of Paddock Wood Athletic Club.

While running is a serious business, the Harvel 5 always has a touch of fun with many of the marshals donning fancy dress. Even the portable toilets got a makeover as the Poo-lympics village and finishers’ medals doubled as a handy bottle-opener.

After the race, many runners and their supporters gathered on the village green to enjoy a pint or two at the beer tent or pick up some local produce or delicious cakes baked by the Harvel Women’s Institute.

For all the pictures from the day see your Gravesend and Dartford Messenger's.