JON Barnes set a new course record when he took victory by over two minutes in The Crocodile 8.

The Hereford based runner ran clear during the 8.8-mile race and posted a winning time of 55 minutes and 10 seconds.

He was chased all the way by Matty James (Hereford Couriers) who finished second in 57.35 while visiting runner Daniel Ayers (Aldershot Farnham & District) completed the podium.

The race held at Burghill saw over 300 competitors take part and used a mixture of woodland trails and paths with the tough part of Badnage Woods or ‘the crocodile’ that includes a set of steps that runners climb up before leaving the woods and out onto Tillington Common.

Marathon queen Gemma Mallett, of Croft Ambrey RC, showed her strength over shorter distances to become the winning female in one hour, seven minutes and 36 seconds.

Niki Morgan of Mynydd Du came second in 1:08:20 with Claire Thomas of Ludlow Runners not far behind her to finish third in 1:08:39.

The Vic Tarrant Team prize was awarded to the Wye Valley Runners.

The junior race started at the same time as the seniors - from the back of the field - to complete 2.5 miles with Eva Tyler and William Redway-Thomas running out winners.

There was also a Mini Fun Run for pre-school and reception children, years one to six prior to the main event.