ALTON Runners had good results in the fourth round of the Southern Cross Country League at Lord Wandsworth College.

Nearly 500 runners turned out on a sunny morning, taking up the challenge of a two-lap course over five miles of muddy fields, tracks, bridleways, footpaths and a very steep hill whick many decided to walk.

The first man home for Alton was James Vann in a very respectable 16th place.

Some way behind came Diego Maldonado in 113th, Chris Sandy 120th, Philip Scrase 138th, Michael Pearce 173rd, Jim Armitage 206th, Dave Molyneux 241st, Richard Scrase 250th, Terry Newman 264th and Terry Blake 271st.

Naomi Shaylor led the Alton women home in a creditable 23rd. And there was good packing as Claire Cheminade finished 32nd, Diane Byrne 36th, Sarah Thomas 50th, Rosella Guidetti 61st, Esther Best 62nd, Karen Mason 75th, Jane Scrase 108th, Charlotte Featherstone 125th, Elaine Molyneux 158th and Caroline Freeman 161st.

The Alton team, comprising five men and three ladies, came 12th out of 23 and Alton’s position after four races is now 14th.

Alton Runners’ annual dinner and presentation evening took place at Monty’s Restaurant in Alton. Social secretary Michelle White organised the event and club coach David Hayles ran a quiz.

Club chairman Philip Scrase presented trophies for the club championships and other awards that recognised the contribution of members.

Award winners: Overall Men’s Champion, Adam Stonehill; Overall Women’s Champion, Diane Byrne; Men’s V40, Philip Scrase; Women’s V35, Vanessa Lowe; Men’s V50, Jim Armitage; Women’s V45, Caroline Freeman; Men’s V60, Mike Pearce; Men’s V70, Terry Blake; Men’s Cross Country, Mike Pearce; Women’s Cross Country, Caroline Freeman.

Runner of the Year Terry Newman was also presented with a T-shirt for taking part in every Hampshire Road Race meeting of the season and Member’s Member Claire Cheminade was voted by the membership as having made an outstanding contribution as a coach, particularly with beginners.

Alton members donated a total of 61kg to the Alton Food Bank.

For more information about Alton Runners, see www.altonrunners.org.uk