OXFORD’S first Rainbow Run is a winner before even touching the starting line, becoming hospice Helen & Douglas House’s fastest-selling event.

The run will see 600 people take on a 3k course while being pelted with powdered paint.

Community and events fundraiser Annaliese Taylor said: “We are surprised it has filled up so quickly, we were expecting it to take a few more weeks. The slots have gone so quickly. This is our fastest-selling event ever.

“Loads of people have been spreading the word, because it’s such a fun and unusual event.”

The run will see participants begin the race dressed in white, although organisers are offering white T-shirts for those who don’t want to ruin their clothes.

  • To watch the event’s promotional video click above

The course consists of five colour stations. As people run through them, volunteers will throw dry powder paint.

Kimberley Walton-Twist was one of the first to sign up.

She said: “It sounds like a great event. I’m doing it with my two step-daughters, Jessica, who’s 12, and Alissa, who’s 11.

“It’ll be fun and it’s a great fundraising opportunity.”

The run will take place on Sunday, June 8, at 10am, and will see runners working their way through University Parks.

The money will be raised through the runners’ entry fees, who each paid £12 or £7.50 for children, and sponsorship.

All proceeds will go towards Helen & Douglas House, which costs £5m to run every year.