PIRATES, mermaids, crocodiles and even the cast of Baywatch decided to forego a Saturday morning lie-in to run through miles of muddy puddles in Taunton.

The reason – to mark the first anniversary of the extraordinarily popular Longrun Meadow Parkrun.

Organisers encouraged runners to arrive in water-themed fancy dress – which was made all the more appropriate when the Heavens opened before the run and the rain persisted throughout.

In total, 220 people took part, with the costumes and outfits including pirates, mermaids, swimmers, surfers, lifeguards, crocodiles and octopuses.

The first runner to complete the five-kilometre course was David Tomlin in 16 minutes, 49 seconds; the first woman back was Natasha Blunt, in 19 minutes, 31 seconds.

The reward for all the runners when they completed the course was generous helpings of cake.

Event organiser and run director Dave Bullock was presented with a special cake – featuring a picture of him – and a golden bucket to help him bail out the larger puddles in the winter.

Dave’s daughter Jess, aged 11, was also given a gift for helping out at the parkrun from its beginnings. Organisers praised Jess for her reliable and efficient support, and for taking on any task with a smile.

Organisers also thanked their team of volunteers, including Jan Burton, who has missed only one of the 52 parkruns to have taken place so far.

Anybody interested in volunteering can contact longrunmeadowhelpers@parkrun.com.