Hundreds of runners tackle competitive Stilton 7

Hundreds of talented runners took to the roads around Melton on Sunday to take part in the Stilton 7 road race.

The popular annual event, which is part of the LRRL Winter League, took place on a cool morning which brightened up.

More than 450 runners set off from the Stute at Holwell Sports & Social Club, Asfordby Hill, for two laps of the 3.5-mile loop.

Tony Woodward, from Hermitage, and Leicester Coritanian Mark Powell battled it out for the overall win, with the Hermitage runner crossing the line first in 37.08mins, 12 seconds ahead of his rival.

Third place also went to the Leicester club, in the shape of Chris Jordan (39.12).

The women’s race was won by nearly two clear minutes by Anne Holland, of Wreake Runners, in 42.28, with Marie Atterbury, of Anstey, and Louise Insley, of South Derbyshire, coming home in second and third spots, respectively, in 44.26 and 44.43.

For host club, Stilton Striders, there were some great performances, despite illness, injury and volunteer duties depriving the club of a number of runners.

Their times were: 45.05 – Luke Eggleston; 46.27 – Darren Glover; 51.26 – Michael Cooke; 51.25 – Andy Nicholls; 51.48 – Clive Kent; 54.16 – Vicki Lowe; 55.35 – Abi Arnott; 56.39 – Michelle Farlow; 56.55 – Sarah Procter; 57.58 – Tam Nicol; 58.24 – Harriette Wright; 67.29 – Harvey Hopwood; 74.24 – Jenny Kent.

The club has thanked all the volunteers, supporters and runners who contributed to a successful event.