A record number of people took part in the annual Rothley 10K, which was supported by Leicester Tigers sponsors Mattioli Woods, and helped raise a record amount of money for charity.

Almost 1,300 runners completed the challenging course in humid conditions on Tuesday evening, the largest field in the race’s 33-year history surpassing last year’s total of 780. It is estimated they raised up to £25,000 for local charities, also a record for the event.

Organisers thanked the help of Tigers after players Greg Bateman, Brendon O’Connor, Telusa Veainu and Mike Williams gave their support to the event in a series of videos, photos and messages.

Colin Favell, joint race manager, said: “It’s amazing how the event has gone from strength to strength, but particularly so since Mattioli Woods became our headline sponsor.

“This year, the company’s promotion of the race was hugely effective. The decision to get Leicester Tigers involved in the publicity was a masterstroke."

Michael Coltherd won the men’s race in 32 minutes 59 while the women’s race was won by Amber Lester in a time of 37 minutes 40 seconds.

Ian Mattioli MBE, chief executive officer and co-founder of Mattioli Woods, who sponsor the East Stand at Welford Road and also have their branding on the shoulder of the club shirt, took part with his wife Clare.

He said: “It was a brilliant event. There was a great spirit among the runners. They were talking, chatting and, most of all, encouraging each other to get to the finish line.

“As a company which started out in Leicester, we’re extremely proud to be the race’s main sponsor. We pay for the event, but because so many other very generous sponsors and associate sponsors have got involved it now means all entry fees go directly to charity – that’s a fantastic achievement.”

Organisations to benefit include Rainbows, LOROS, the county air ambulance service, Age UK, Eye Camps and RLNI.