Hundreds dressed as gorillas ran through the centre of London at the weekend as part of a charity event raising money for the endangered apes.

More than 600 people donned the hairy outfits as part of the 4.4-mile London Great Gorilla Run, which passed through St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London before finishing where it started in Mincing Lane.

Organisers said that £100,000 had so far been raised and that the money would be used to save the lives and help preserve the habitat of gorillas.

TV conservationist Bill Oddie and spoon-bending magician Uri Geller handed medals to everyone who took part.

“I have been presenting this run for five years and it is fantastic to see so many doing good for our cousins,” said Mr Oddie.

“Thanks to all for coming and raising awareness for a fantastic cause.”

Mr Geller added: “There are only 800 gorillas left on this planet so it is great to see so many of you supporting them in this way.”