RAIN couldn't dampen the spirits of nearly 200 runners who took part in the first Port Glasgow 10k race.

The inaugural event was held on Sunday and saw athletes of all ages snake around the town towards the finish point at Coronation Park, where the proceedings had got under way.

Provost Martin Brennan was on hand to start the race with Port wheelchair competitor, Kyle Brotherton, quickest off the mark.

The flat route, which went through Kingston Dock, the town centre, along Glasgow Road and out to Kelburn Park, meant that many runners achieved personal bests.

Christopher Mooney was the first man across the finish line with a time of 34:09, followed by Daniel Thomas (34:20) and Daniel Doherty (36:11).

He was presented with his winners' trophy by local councillor, Jim MacLeod, who sponsored the prize for the fastest male competitor.

The first woman home was Jennifer Rooney with a time of 41:01 followed by Emma Baxter (43:19) and Cath Ferry (43:29).

Jennifer won the Riverside Inverclyde Trophy for fastest female runner, which was presented to her by company official Andrew Bowman.

The 10k event was such a success that it will return next year.

Organiser Andrew McCall, from the Port Glasgow Runners' Group, said: "Our goal was to get the local community active, to enjoy sport and meeting new people.

"I'm incredibly proud that our group have inspired nearly 200 others to get their running shoes on to walk, jog and run the 10k around Port Glasgow.

"To every single person involved in making our first 10k a success, thank you and see you next year."

Other special guests on the day included Morton player Ruaridh Langan and club mascot Cappie the Cat.

River Clyde Homes and Vango provided water stops while the Port-based outdoor clothing company also provided socks for runners at the end.

The local Lidl store donated water and fresh fruit for participants crossing the finish line and they enjoyed a chocolate treat courtesy of Tunnock's.

Competitors were also entered into a raffle to win prizes from The Waterwheel restaurant, Vango, The New Chocolate Company and The Port Barbers.

Port councillor Chris Curley, who helped organise the event, said: "Thanks to the runners and volunteers and who made the day such a success and thanks to Provost Brennan for starting the race.

"We hope to build on the event in future years getting people into, and out and about, the town."

Preparations are now under way for the 2019 Port 10k and it is hoped many more people will join in.

Organiser Nicola Gillespie said: "Despite the weather, it was fantastic to see so many runners turn up for the race including our wheelchair athlete, Kyle Brotherton, who is an inspiration to us all.

"I hope the 10k fun run will inspire others, to get more active, join local groups; and build friendships like we have."