HUNDREDS of runners took to the Herefordshire roads last week for the annual Hereford Couriers 10-kilometre road race event.

Organiser Jonathan Edwards and his team had an added problem this year when the event’s usual start and finish at Hereford Rugby Club was moved onto the Great Western Way due to flooding.

Some 369 runners competed over the popular course and the quickest male and female competitors were visiting runners Fionn O'Murchu (Brighton & Hove AC) and Annie Birch (Kent AC).

Despite the damp conditions O'Murchu posted an impressive winning time of 31 minutes and 35 seconds over the undulating course.

Daniel Bodman (Parc Bryn Bach Running Club) finished second in 33-12, while Eric Apperley led the Herefordshire challenge finishing third in 33-46.

Apperley also led Croft Ambrey Running Club to the men’s team prize alongside Sam Juson (4th overall in 33-5), Gareth Leek (35-14) and Simon Norwood (40-17).

Birch was a clear winner in the women’s event posting an impressive time of 36-23 which placed her 14th overall.

Addy Carter led the Herefordshire runners home finishing second in 41-39 and Niki Morgan (Chepstow Harriers) was third (42-20).

Carter also led host club Herefordshire Couriers to the women’s team award alongside Naomi Prosser (43-28), Laura Hands (44-32) and Clare Mallender (45-54).

The Hereford Couriers 5k Series will again take place in 2024 on April 10, May 8 and June 5.

For more details and to enter the 5k Series visit: https://www.entrycentral.com/5kSeries2024