David Cameron stepped up his training for what is expected to be a gruelling election fight today – by racing through an icy brook.

The Prime Minister joined competitors on a mile-long route in the Cotswold village of Chadlington.

He wore knee guards to prevent a repeat of the cuts he received during the same event two years ago.The Great Brook Run has been taking place since 2006, with the slogan ‘Run. Get wet. Have a pint’.

It starts and ends at the Tite Inn in Chadlington, and the website promises that every runner “no matter how crap” gets a medal.

The £5 fee to take part goes to local good causes. Mr Cameron previously participated in 2012 and 2009.