STUART Henderson is the new Wiltshire half marathon champion, writes KEVIN FAHEY.

The 41-year-old from Lacock, near Chippenham, was awarded the title after winning the Cricklade half on Sunday in a time of 78mins 49secs.

“I was very pleased with my win in Cricklade and it was nice to be crowned Wiltshire champion as well,” said Henderson.

“I ran the race tactically rather than just blast off for a good time having also raced the day before at the National Road Relays (for his club Team Bath AC).”

The plan worked perfectly as Henderson tucked in behind the early leader before making his move at four miles and quickly opening up a gap.

“I knew I had someone behind me until nine miles but I just kept going and was working hard to make sure I wasn’t caught in the closing miles,” added the second claim member of Corsham Running Club.

“Cricklade is a nice, flat course on rural roads and I really enjoyed it – especially winning.”

The victory also shows that Henderson’s preparation are looking encouraging for the inaugural Bristol to Bath marathon on October 25.

“The aim there is to enjoy the race and not worry about the time as there are a few hills in that course,” said Henderson.

The Wiltshire women’s title went to Fiona Price of Avon Valley Runners, who came third overall.

WILTSHIRE ROAD RACE LEAGUE (Sponsored by Newsquest)

Division 1: Avon Valley Runners A 199 pts; Chippenham Harriers A 190; Avon Valley Runners B 179; Chippenham Harriers B 149; Devizes Running Club A 147; Frome Running Club A 139; Team Bath AC A 135; Calne Running Club A 134; Swindon Harriers A 132; Slinn Allstars A 121; Calne SMaRTT A 82; Devizes Running Club B 43.

Division 2: Corsham RC A 201; Royal Wootton Bassett Hounds A 109; Highworth Running Club A 105; Frome RC B 75; Westbury Running Group A 75; Corsham RC B 71; Swindon Striders A 58; Swindon Striders B 32; Salisbury A&RC A 32; Calne RC B 32; Slinn Allstars B 31; Calne SMaRTT B 17; Royal Wootton Bassett Hounds B 16; Swindon Harriers B 14; Highworth RC B 12.