AERIAL footage shows thousands of runners at the annual Southend Half Marathon. 

The clip, taken by Dave Black, from Shoebury, was taken on Sunday as people competed to raise money for Havens Hospice. 

Mr Black, who owns Blackwing Aerial Services, has been using a 1.2kg remote controlled “quadcopter” to film his videos since August.

The half marathon, organised by Havens Hospices and supported by Olympus Key Med, proved more successful than ever, with a record number of runners taking part.

A total of 2,190 people crossed the starting line at 10am on Sunday to raise money for the local hospice charity.

Among their number was Paralympian goal ball player, Louise Simpson, who was guided through the race by Harminder Singh.

Entrants were able to enjoy the sunshine as they ran along Southend seafront, following a picturesque two-lap, traffic-free route.

The winner was Paul Whittaker, while Sarah Starding was the first woman home.

One runner tragically died after completing the race.

  • View a picture gallery from Sunday's event here