JOE Mercer was the first local runner to complete this year's Hendersons End Fell Race.

The Horwich RMI Harrier finished second in 46mins 38secs behind Gary Priestley of Salford Harriers in the long-established event which is organised by Lostock Atheltics Club.

Nick Leigh, also of Horwich Harriers was one place behind in third on what was a good day for the club as they won a host of categories.

The race, has slowly increased in popularity and this year saw 104 runners take part, all completing the course.

Well marshalled and with safety care provided by Bolton Mountain Rescue Team, the race took part on a warm, sunny evening and started and finished at Rivington Hall Barn.

The route takes in the Pigeon Tower, Rivington Pike, Georges Lane, Two Lads, Winter Hill Trig Point and returns by a similar route.

All proceeds after expenses are donated to charity, mainly to the Bolton Mountain Rescue Team, and all the main prizes were donated by INOV8 of Staveley.

Main results: 1st Gary Priestley (Salford Harriers 45.23), 2nd Joe Mercer (Horwich RMI Harriers 46.38), 3rd Nick Leigh (Horwich RMI Harriers 49.20), 1st LadyLindsey Brindle (Horwich RMI Harriers 53.16), 2nd Lady Catherine Slater (Preston Harriers 57.16), 3rd Lady Kirsty Normanton (Burnden RR 62.41), 1st M40 Alastair Murray (Horwich RMI Harriers 50.19), 1st M50 David Parkington (Preston Harriers 54.09), 1st M60 Steven Morran (Northern Vets 57.04), 1st M70 John Parker (Horwich RMI Harriers 72.45), 1st L40 Sandra Kelly (Horwich RMI Harriers 62.20), 1st L50 Suzanne Budgett (Horwich RMI Harriers 64.10), 1st L60 Marjorie Leigh (Leigh Harriers 76.01).

Lostock AC meet at Horwich Leisure Centre at 6.50pm for 7pm start and welcome runners of all abilities to join them.