Runners in Birmingham were left bewildered at the weekend after a mysterious cloud of dust descended on a city park.

But initial fears that armageddon had arrived were quickly dispelled when it emerged the cause was Birmingham Mail editor Steve Dyson smashing his 5K personal best time.

Steve even went head-to-head with Danger Mouse in the final strait as he came home in 44 minutes – a good 26 minutes after his 16-year-old son who finished an impressive fifth overall.

The grand total raised by Steve and his family members was £700 which goes into the pot that could tip the £100,000 mark for this year’s Birmingham Mail Fun Run.

Proceeds raised by the 2,000 runners on Sunday will be split between the event’s main organisers Macmillan Cancer Support and the Birmingham Mail Charity Trust which helps deprived, voluntary community groups.

Steve blogged: “I know I’m overweight but this was my moment, a time when I would steadily jog 5km and come in ahead of at least half the runners. And, in fairness, I did beat a stilt walker.

“Sponsorships will take a few weeks to roll in, but going by last year’s average we’re looking like at least £80,000, and possibly as much as £100,000.”

Wherever there is danger he’ll be there…DANGER MOUSE!!!

Getting in the zone – Steve joins the masses for the gun at Birmingham’s Perry Park