Dozens of runners dashed desperately alongside a group of powerful bulls from the Victoriano del Rio ranch during the third running of the bulls at the world-famous San Fermin festival on Thursday

The heart-pounding moment, captured in dramatic scenes on the narrow cobblestone streets of Pamplona’s old town, showed participants in traditional white outfits and red scarves sprinting just metres away from the charging bulls

Some runners stumbled and fell as the animals thundered forward, while others tried to guide or evade the massive beasts during the high-stakes dash

Thousands of spectators and thrill-seekers from around the world gathered for the annual San Fermin festival, which features the famous 'encierros' or running of the bulls

Every morning at 8.00 am, six bulls are released to run an 850-metre course from their corral to the bullring through the historic streets of the old town. This year’s third bull run on Thursday saw large crowds lining the route as the Victoriano del Rio bulls displayed their strength and speed. While many runners managed to stay ahead, the chaotic scenes highlighted both the bravery and the inherent dangers of the centuries-old tradition.