RUNNERS from across Cambridgeshire got a little taste of South America at the first Grafham Water Marathon on Sunday.

The Grafham Water Marathon Chasqui Challenge, organised by Amatani UK, was held to raise money for education projects in rural Peru.

Around 220 runners took to the start line for the event, with the majority completing one lap of the course for the half marathon.

Some were running money for charities of their choice, but those running for Amantani managed to raise XXX.

There was plenty of entertainment available on the day and those in search of a more leisurely Sunday morning could browse the Latin American trading village, soak up authentic live music and taste some traditional Peruvian food and drink.

The route took runners around the north-east shore of the reservoir, then on a cross-country route on bridleways and footpaths to the south, finishing at the visitors’ centre.

Hosted by Amantani.org.uk, the race was the first to be held at Grafham Water, and organisers said that thoughts were already turning to next year’s race.

Fred Branson, co-director of Amantani UK and event organiser, said: “It was all absolutely sublime. We were a little worried about the weather, but it held out for us, and from an organisational point of view it ran smoothly.

“People were very happy with the course, and keen to do it again next year, and the live entertainment, music and food was all fantastic.”

INFORMATION: To find out more, visit www.grafhamwatermarathon.com or www.amantani.org.uk