Maldon Mud Race
Thousands turned out for the annual Maldon Mud Race - a charity event which sees hundreds of people dash 400 metres across the beds of the River Blackwater. Pictures: Gareth Fuller/PA
1. Maldon Mud Race
And they're off! More than 300 competitors - many in fancy dress - enter the waters of the River Blackwater at Maldon for the town's annual Mud Race.
2. Maldon Mud Race
Around 15,000 people turned out to cheer on competitors in the Bank Holiday weekend sunshine.
3. Maldon Mud Race
Mud Race runner Diane Gibson heading for the finish line!
4. Maldon Mud Race
The race takes place at low tide - meaning the water is shallow enough to allow runners to get through the water to the opposite side and back again.
5. Maldon Mud Race
Competitors scramble up the river bank.
6. Maldon Mud Race
In the pink and heading for the finish line!
7. Maldon Mud Race
Traditionally the Maldon Mud Race took place over Christmas but cold weather in 2010 forced the event to be rescheduled to the spring.
8. Maldon Mud Race
Competitors pose for photographers at the finishing line.
9. Maldon Mud Race
Competitors dash up the banks of the River Blackwater.
10. Maldon Mud Race
This year's event will benefit Essex charities including Farleigh Hospice, Little Haven Children's Hospice and Brainwave.
11. Maldon Mud Race
Charity fund raiser Joel Hicks celebrates as he scrambles up the river bank to the finish line.
12. Maldon Mud Race
Competitors race across the muddy beds of the River Blackwater.
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