Hundreds of council workers dug out their trainers to take part in the annual Christmas Fun Run.

The race, sponsored by trade union Unison, was around Oxford's Christ Church Meadow and saw councillors and staff from both the county and the city councils taking part.

And for some people, it was too good an opportunity to do something silly.

Colin May, who works for the county council's learning disability team, decided to complete the 2-mile course wearing skis.

He said: "I'm just going to see how far I can get before I give up, but it's all for fun."

Mr May only managed to complete one lap of the course in 38 minutes.

The eventual winner was Kidlington firefighter Gary Crone, in a time of 12 minutes, six seconds.

Mr Crone said: "It's my first year taking part in the race, as I'm normally on duty. It's been great to come down and get involved.

"I have to stay in pretty good shape, because of work, and I was quite shocked when I set off and saw I was in the lead - I didn't expect to win on my first time."

Colin Dempsey, who works for the county council's Future First programme, completed the course dressed as a wind turbine.

Mr Dempsey said: "I work on a team that is trying to help the county council reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by 18 per cent by 2012, so I thought it would be fitting for me to dress like this.

"Also, it lets my bosses know I'm dedicated to my job."

A new record was also set for participants aged 60+ - by the man who launched the fun run 30 years ago. John Exley, 60, from Garsington, finished in the top 10, with a time of 12 minutes 38 seconds.

He said: "This is the reason I started the race, to see everyone coming out and having a bit of fun and I'm very proud it is still a regular fixture."

Liberal Democrat city councillor Stephen Tall, the deputy Lord Mayor of Oxford, finished in just over 16 minutes.