THOUSANDS flocked to the world famous Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden to take part in a 10k fun run for charity.

More than 2,000 people walked, jogged or ran the route in the glorious sunshine which began at the temple, also known as Neasden Temple, on April 10.

The popular annual event brings together members of the community from different backgrounds and ages, ranging from as young as three up to 97. Money raised will be donated to charity Age UK, which helps the elderly.

Among those present were Paul Farthing, fundraising director of Age UK, the Mayor of Brent, Councillor Harbhajan Singh and Liberal Democrat MP for Brent Central, Sarah Teather.

Kamlesh Patel, volunteer, said: “We are delighted to be working with Age UK. Older people are such a valuable part of our society but are sadly so often forgotten and neglected. We hope that this has helped raise some awareness and vital funds for them.”

The temple, which is run by BAPS Charities, has teamed up with Age UK this year to help with its fundraising efforts.

Ms Teather said: "I always find it really inspirational to see every generation take part. It is amazing that a man of 97 did the 10k walk some of the smallest children walked around the Temple. It is fantastic that this place will bring all generations together to better Brent and society as a whole."

Other fundraisers decided a 10k walk was not enough and so climbed on their bikes to cycle 30 kilometres around Kind Edward VII Park in Wembley.

Mr Farthing, from Age UK, said: “Ensuring that older people can make the most of life lies at the heart of Age UK’s work and it’s wonderful to see so many people going the extra mile to support people in later life.”