BURNDEN Road Runners accounted for around a quarter of the field in the Smithills Country Park Race, organised by the Northern Veterans last weekend.

An overnight cold snap had left icy patches on the roads, but near-perfect running conditions on the trails.

In the 10k race, Glen Kenyon (M35) finished second in 42mins 47secs, while Rob Jackson of Horwich RMI finished 90 seconds quicker.

Martyn Pollitt finished first M50 in 45:29 with Mel Walker the highest placed M70 runner in 51:00.

The ladies' race saw a battle to the finish between Gwen Kinloch and Lesley Fisher which Kinloch won in 49:06 ahead of Fisher in 49:20.

Other results: Don Nichol (M55) 50:42, Katy Thompson (L40) 52:58, Elaine Roper (L55) 55:30.

Over the 5k distance, Sheila Christie won the L50 race in 29:56 and Dave Pearson was first M60 in 31:42.

The Endurance Store Bat League continued with participants taking on The Hilly Goat Puffer – a race over 4.5 miles including a 340ft climb and descent.

Keith Thomas finished second in 33:46 while Laurence Keighley completed the course in 40:17 and Matt Barker in 41:36.

Preparations are underway for the club’s Trotters 5 Mile Trail Race. The popular annual event will take place on Sunday, March 1.

The race forms part of the Central Lancashire Grand Prix Series and both club and non-club runners are invited to compete across a challenging but fun course.

Runners can enter on the day, or visit www.burndenroadrunners.co.uk to download an entry form, or for more information.