THREE charities were presented with £345 each from Chelmsford Marathong, held for the first time last year.

Representatives of Jo’s Trust, which fights cervical cancer, Orchid, fighting testicular cancer, and Farleigh Hospice were at Anglia Ruskin University to collect their money – on a bright pink thong.

The event also saw the launch of the 2010 event, which takes place at the university on October 10.

Jo’s Trust and Orchid will again be the beneficiaries, along with Little Havens Children’s Hospice.

Nikki Kennard, of Chelmsford College, which will lead organisation for this year’s event, said: “Last year was the first, so we are hoping to get to a wider audience this time.”

The eight-mile charity fun walk encourages people to wear thongs.

There is a £5 entrance fee and a prize for the best dresses walker. You can register at www.chelmsford.ac.uk or call 01245 684321 or 293009.