SEVERAL hundred competitors braved hard-packed snow, drifts and biting wind to complete the Warminster Plain Crazy race near Warminster on Monday.

Starting at Quebec Barn on Salisbury Plain near Knook, it was just a mile shorter than the billed 14 miles, but the organisers’ efforts to get the race, sponsored by Tony Price Intersport Wessex 4X4 Response and Sodexo, on were rewarded.

Competitors, including Rupert Barnard, from Cape Town, in South Africa contended with a military road covered in packed ice and crossed the Plain, also running through Imber Village.

The first runner home was Steven Herring, from Bedford, who completed the course in one hour 19 minutes and 39 seconds, also taking home the Veterans over 40 prize.

In second place was Captain Barry Stoddart, running for the Royal Army Physical Training Corps, who was home in 1:21.47, closely followed by Gary O’Brien, of Swindon Harriers (1:21.56).

The first lady home was Suzie Richards, of Herne Hill, in 1:34.24, followed by Vicky White, of Chippenham Harriers (1:37.23).

In third place was local runner Diane Hier, of Warminster Running Club in 1:37.23, which earned her the ladies veteran over 45 prize.

Race director Ted Wilson said: “The race was well received by the runners, some even trying to book up for next year.

“All the marshalls and volunteers deserve a mention. Without these people most events of this kind would never get off the ground, they did an excellent job.’’ Money raised from the event will go to Warminster Branch The Royal British Legion to be used for local casework.

l LAST-MINUTE course changes allowed the 51st Boxing Day running of the Stan Farr 5k race at Hilperton.

Thirty four Avon Valley Runners took up the challenge as temperatures plunged to minus 10, with local runner Tom Fisher leading from the start to claim his first Boxing Day title in 15 minutes and 31 seconds.

Fisher was more than 30 seconds ahead of clubmate Dave Spencer and third-placed Mike Pace.

The ladies race saw a close battle between Claire Howard and Melanie Nicholls, Howard taking her first title ahead of the 2009 winner with Helen Ridley third.

In fourth place overall, Richard Hudson claimed the male veterans 40 title, with Kevin Gover landing the male veterans 50 crown and Bob Washbourne the 60 title.

Kay Middleton was first female veteran 40, Sue MacGregor (50), Rosemary Barber (6) the other winners, who received their medals from club vice-president Judy Farr at the Lion and Fiddle pub.

PLAIN CRAZY PICTURES IN FRIDAY'S WILTSHIRE TIMES