TWO veteran athletes helped Great Britain to silver team medals at the annual World Masters Mountain Running Championship in Italy.

With temperatures unseasonably hot in the late 20's and a rocky, steep course, the event was demanding despite the inspiring views across the Adriatic.

Sue Davies, of Croft Ambrey RC, was first to compete over the 10.9-kilometre course, which had 496 metres of climb and 374m of downhill.

She finished 15th female over-50 in one hour, 25 minutes and 58 seconds in a big field. She was second GB runner, finishing a mere seconds behind her compatriot.

In the over 70's men's event Hereford Courier, Steve Herington finished seventh in 47 minutes and eight seconds over the shorter course of 6.5-kilometre course which included 330 metres of ascent and 207m of descent.

Like Davies before him, Herington was second GB counter, sandwiched between a Northern Ireland runner and a Welshman.

Both GB teams trailed the Italians who were out in force on home territory.