SOME 167 runners took to the rolling roads of Breinton for the Hereford Couriers' Christmas 10-kilometre race last week.

In a welcomed return to racing Charlie Jones (Western Tempo) and Donna Morris (Builth and District Running Club) showed they were top of the tree by clinching victories.

The race, at a reduced capacity for 2021 due to coronavirus still saw an impressive field take to the start-line at Hereford Rugby Club.

Jones had an impressive run leading from start to finish crossed the line to set a winning time of 33 minutes and eight seconds.

He finished over a minute ahead of team-mate David Aubrey while Malvern Buzzard youngster Malachi Cashmore finished a close third crossing the line in 34 minutes and 52 seconds.

In the women's race Builth Runner Morris, straight off the back of a night shift won in a fantastic time of 38 minutes and 44 seconds.

She finished ahead of Croft Ambrey duo Kelly Bowen and Alice Godding who both performed well.

The Couriers took the men’s team prize after fine personal bests performances by Ryan Knight, Will Maul and Darren Broady who took a clear victory.

The impressive Croft Ambrey women's team of Kelly Bowen, Alice Godding and Roxane Woodfield help the team in blue clinch the women’s team award.

There was also a host of category prizes for the veteran and junior sections.

Jon Edwards, Couriers' club secretary said: “During these tough times it was great to give the runners of Herefordshire something to smile about.

"We were delighted to host this event and with all the tier changes and restrictions it really become a celebration of running in the county.

"A big thank you to our team of volunteers, our race partners and Hereford Rugby Club who all played their part in making this event a success.

“If you raced on Sunday or just looking to join a friendly bunch of runners come along to our ever popular socially distanced club sessions every Tuesday & Thursday 6.30pm at Hereford Leisure Centre.”

Pictures by Chris Smart