ATHLETICS: MORE than 200 runners lined up beside the Tithe Barn in Bradford on Avon for the tenth staging of the Over the Hills 12K multi-terrain race hosted by Avon Valley Runners.

The race was preceded by a minute's silence in memory of club founder Ian Stan' Farr, who died recently.

The recent mild weather meant that finding firm footing was not as challenging as in previous years, so some pretty good times were recorded at the sharp end of the race.

Rob Hayday, of Corsham Running Club, conquered the seven and a half mile course to win in a time of 44 minutes, 15 seconds from defending champion Craig Davey, and Alex Copping both from City of Bath AC.

In fourth place Michael Bryant was Avon Valley's first runner home, winning his tussle with club-mate Kevin Sparey, who landed the MV50 prize for the second year.

Andy Goodman, of Dorset Doddlers, took the MV60 award in 60:13. Richard Schofield took the MV40 prize and led home Chippenham Harriers to the team prize.

In the ladies' race Lynda Faulkner, of Dorset Doddlers, took victory by nearly five minutes after finishing in 50:01 from Kate Jacobs of Swindon Harriers (54:59) and Julie Humphries of Alton Joggers (55:33).

Chippenham Harriers' Melanie Blackman finished as first FV35 and led home her club to the ladies' team prize.

Unattached runner Sarah Sims claimed the FV45 prize in 59:46 and Sue Bathgate of Cheltenham Harriers took the FV55 prize in 65:10.