CHRIS Roxburgh proved too hot to handle for the rest of the field as he continued his recovery from an appendix operation earlier this year with victory at the Lacock Half Marathon The Trowbridge competitor is more usually seen in powerman and duathlon events but has concentrated on the running discipline this summer, finishing eighth at the recent Liverpool Half Marathon.

In baking conditions, the 32-year-old came home in one hour 17 minutes and 30 seconds, more than five seconds ahead of second-placed Brian Caswell (1.22:47) with Robert Deller third in 1.24:08.

Roxburgh, who is a paramedic, said: “It was a bit slower than I would have liked but it was a really hot day and a lot of people were suffering. It was not an easy course so I expected a bit of a slow-down.’’ He added: “I was rushed into hospital and had my appendix out in February and then did the Bath Half Marathon two weeks’ later, which was perhaps a bit too much.

"With (son) Charlie arriving this year as well, I’ve been focused on him and it’s been difficult to get the training work in sometimes.

“I’ve been focusing a bit more on the running and I’m doing the Bristol Half Marathon in September before my first marathon in Birmingham.’’ Lacock hosted a series of races on Sunday, with the half marathon the centrepiece.

Alison Frati was the first female home in 1.26:23, a full 13 minutes ahead of her nearest rival Naomi Aylwin (Bristol & West AC) with Heather Kohoshnevis (Littledown Harriers) third.

In the 5K race, Somer AC’s Peter Green clocked 19.24 to win ahead of Swindon Harriers’ Simon Jell (19.33), with Scott Curtis third (21.23).

Green’s clubmate Ella Smart (26.28) was the female winner.

John Marsh won the 10k in 38.36, from Team Bath’s Ian Gunning (39.11) and Gary Worsley, of Littledown Harriers (39.29).