FALLEN trees, high winds and teeming rain didn’t prevent a large turnout for Sunday’s Slaughterford 9 multi-terrain race near Corsham.

Hundreds turned up for the annual race, organised by Chippenham Harriers, which was based at Leafy Lane Playing Fields, in Rudloe.

Chris Scothern, one of the organisers, said: “We had over 350 runners turn up to run one of the wettest races I think we have ever had.

“We nearly changed the route as I had a phone call from one of the local farmers on Saturday night informing me that six ash trees had blown down compromising the route.

“Thankfully the farmer came to our rescue as he was out with a chainsaw and his tractor early on Sunday morning, moving hefty trees out of the way, meaning the race was able to continue along the original route.’’

The men’s race was dominated by Chepstow Harriers, with Paul Murrin winning the event in 59 minutes flat.

Teammate Matt Stott was second, 19 seconds adrift, with unattached runners Brian Jeffrey (59.40) and Guy Woods (59.51) filling the next two places and Chepstow’s Jame Blore fifth (1:00.11).

Yatton Keynell’s Claire Frances (Bybrook Valley Running Club) was the first lady home in 1:10:09, ahead of Chippenham Harriers’ Charlotte Bowers (1:10:36).

  • Full results via chippenhamharriers.co.uk

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