THE Royal Gwent Hospital's cardiology fun run took place today at Tredegar House.

More than 150 runners took part in the fun run in the grounds of the 17th century manor house. The event is a fundraiser for the hospital's Cardiology Fund and featured a 5k run as well as a 10k run.

The fund has been running for the past 32 years and was founded by Dr John Davies, a cardiology consultant.

They have raised more than £1 million since its inception in 1983. The money goes towards the purchase of special equipment, books and training for staff.

Cllr Herbie Thomas, Mayor of Newport, started the race yesterday. He said: "This is such a fantastic event and it's great to see so many here. All these people are working so hard to help buy equipment."

Steve Richards, organiser, said: "The fund has helped a lot of people. I've had bypass surgery and I'm the organiser - I felt a debt of gratitude."

The run has taken place at Tredegar House for the last four years and was previously run from the Royal Gwent Hospital to Usk Rugby Club.

Dr Christoph Madler, a consultant cardiologist and president of the Cardiology Fund, has been taking part in the run for the past 13 years. He said: "Without help in funding there would be certain things we wouldn't be able to do. The funds allow us to have that little bit extra to help our patients."