A CHARITY has raised a record amount of money during the Brighton Half Marathon.

The Sussex Beacon, a charity specialising in care and support for people living with HIV in Sussex, raised more than £55,000 during the event – a record amount.

A total of 194 runners took part in support of the charity at the race on Sunday, October 10.

Among the participants raising money for Sussex Beacon was Brighton-based comedian Zoe Lyons.

The Argus: Among the participants was Brighton-based comedian Zoe Lyons Among the participants was Brighton-based comedian Zoe Lyons

A Sussex Beacon fundraising spokesman said: “Each year I am simply astounded by the efforts runners take to run the Half for us and the amazing fundraising totals that are raised.

“With the support of our sponsors the Sussex Freemasons we have been able to grow Team Beacon further this year and will continue to do so into the 30th anniversary of The Sussex Beacon in 2022.”

Due to the support from the Sussex Freemasons, runners were able to have a unique experience on race day with an additional medal, vest, catering, private baggage area and exclusive toilets.

Brighton Half Marathon race director Martin Harrigan said: “It’s amazing to see so many supporters of the charity out on the course, creating atmosphere, getting involved with the crowds and really rocking those Team Beacon vests.”

Mike Harris, of Sussex Freemasons, said: “It is heartwarming to see so many amazing runners raising such a magnificent amount of money for so many worthy community causes and in particular funding a nursing position for the Sussex Beacon.”

The 2021 event was the 31st Brighton Half Marathon.

Paul Navesey, the course record holder, claimed another victory at the annual event on Sunday.

He crossed the finish line in a time of 01:08:10, followed by Marcus England (01:08:55) and James Turner (01:09:29).

For the women, Bobby Searle claimed her first Brighton Half Marathon victory in a time of 01:22:25.

She was followed by Dani Tarleton in second (01:23:03) and Emily Proto in third (01:24:33).

The 2022 Brighton Half Marathon is due to be held on Sunday, February 27, 2022, with registration now open.