There was drama at the Abbots Langley Tough Ten race over the weekend after a man collapsed in a road that was part of the race route.

The man, who was walking to the shops on Abbots Langley High Street and not involved in the race, collapsed in Abbots Road, near the junction of the High Street at 9.45am on Sunday (October 7).

East of England Ambulance Service sent an ambulance from Watford and a response car from Garston to the scene and the man was rushed to Watford General Hospital for further care.

The incident caused the 30th anniversary race to be re-routed after police closed off Abbots Road, for around an hour.

Instead of running towards Gallows Hill Lane, Tough Ten runners ran through the car park near the High Street.

Pat Waterton, secretary of the race, said: "The day went really well and we had a record turnout, with 704 runners taking part.

"It was a bit hectic to begin with, what with the last minute re-route. But race organisers thought on their feet and luckily we were able to continue the race.

"We hope the man is okay."

Paramedics from the Red Cross Ambulance service, who were there on the day to assist with race runners, were also on hand to help the man who had collapsed.

Last year’s 10k race winner, Glen Watts, broke his record this year and reached the finish line in 30 minutes 51 seconds.

Pat added: "It was a nice autumn day and remained dry. Again it was a good village day."

Cash from the Abbots Langley Tough Ten will go to charities including the Red Cross, hospices, the village surgery and clubs such as the Monday Club and community centre.