More than 800 runners at Banham Zoo raised around £20,0000 to help protect endangered animal species

More than 800 runners raised thousands of pounds to help protect endangered animal species.

The runners all took part in the Run Banham Zoo 5K Race on Saturday. They raised around £20,000.

It is the second time the zoo has held the event, which sees participants race along the zoo’s pathways and passing by the animals, including geladas, kangaroos, giraffes and howler monkeys.

The event was split into two waves as runners, joggers and walkers of all ages and abilities took part at their own pace.

Josh Hunter Harl, sales and marketing director at the Zoological Society of East Anglia, said: “It went really, really well and we were delighted by the turnout.

“It’s the second time we have held the event. Last year we had 500 people take part, who raised £12,000, and this year 806 people who raised around £20,000, which is amazing.

“Some people even came in costume, including a tiger, giraffe, ostrich and emu.

“The zoo was full of runners and spectators and we would like to thank everyone who came along.”

All proceeds from the event go towards Banham Zoo’s conservation initiatives, helping protect endangered species both locally and globally.

The money was raised through ticket sales and donations on the day. Runners finished the 5k distance with a lap around the zoo’s perimeter.

Josh added: “Apart from the running clubs, there were so many other people taking part and just enjoying the run, including some from the blind community.

“Everyone got into the spirit of things and there was a great atmosphere throughout the event.

“We are looking to build on it and learn from the first two years to make it even bigger and better next year.”