THE fourth annual Ledbury Chase attracted nearly 90 competitors on Sunday and has now earned its place on the racing calender.

Sunday's race, jointly hosted by Ledbury and District Harriers and Ledbury Rugby Club, was run in warm conditions.

The course presented a tough challenge to an experienced field and the winner was Brendan Ward, of Cheltenham Harriers, with a time of 1hr 25 mins. Other members of his team finished close behind and they took the team award, sponsored by Mr & Mrs Terry Folly.

Runners from the local Hereford Couriers were also amongst the early finishers.

The organisers were thrilled with the attendance, up on last year, and have pledged to extend the event in the future.

Their only disappointment was the lack of local and non-club runners.

Each competitor received a goodie bag, courtesy of M&M Sports of Leominster, and a commemorative mug. There was a barbecue and bar, and the excellent changing facilities were appreciated by all.

The organisers would like to thank everyone who contributed to such a success; the marshals, timekeepers, first aid attendants, bar staff, and those who manned the water stations.

RESULTS

1 Brendan Ward (Cheltenham Harriers) 1.25.00, 2 Kevin Willis (Cheltenham Harriers) 1.26.00, 3 Tim Clark (Hereford Couriers) 1.27.35.

Ladies. 1 Angie Sadler (Cheltenham Harriers) 1.35.05, 2 Nicola Goodwin (unattached) 1.39.08, 3 Stephanie Hyde (unattached) 1.45.10.

Ledbury and District Harriers is a growing band of amateur runners from Ledbury. They meet at the Ross Road Playing Fields on Tuesday evenings at 7pm, 6pm during winter months. Their website is at www.ledburyharriers.org.uk.