Participants young and old put their best foot forward this morning as they took part in Watford’s second annual Smile Mile.

About 50 walkers, who gathered at 10.30am outside the town centre bandstand, completed a mile-long circuit through a chilly Cassiobury Park.

The event, attended by sporting mascots Harry the Hornet and Sarrie the Camel, is designed to promote gentle, social exercise and also raises money for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Anya Wesolowski, six, a pupil at Watford Field School, crossed the finishing line first in a little over 15 minutes. She said: “I ran all the way around. I really like running but it was hard work; my legs are hurting a bit now but I did have fun.”

For most participants, however, the event was a rather more sedate affair, with most opting simply to walk the course.

Razia Banu was taking part with two friends from the Watford FC Extra Time group. She said: “It’s a very good cause and it helps to keep me fit as well. It’s also a good way to meet new people. The park also looks beautiful this morning.”

Sixty-four-year-old Diane Wise, meanwhile, was walking with three former colleagues from John Lewis.

She said: “It would have been nice to see a few more people her but I am having fun. It’s good to keep ourselves fit and it is also for a very good cause.”

Mayor Dorothy Thornhill said: “This is a chance for people who are a little bit unfit, who are not used to exercising to come out and have fun. I am smiling and it is a beautiful day.”