DESPITE the worst of Bolton’s winter weather Lostock AC successfully hosted the 38th Lostock 6 road race on Sunday with a record 500 runners from all over the north west and beyond competing.

After the host club’s Melonie Crompton led the runners in a group warm-up the serious business of racing got underway.

Salford Harrier Karl Darcy quickly established a commanding lead, and did not let up, achieving a new course record of 29:44, finishing more than two minutes ahead of unattached runners George Martindale in second (31:48) and Luke Foley in third (32:53).

Bolton United Harriers’ Laura Lombard won the women’s race in 35:08, followed by Leigh Harriers duo Dionne Allen (36:13) and Leah Peploe (36:21).

Bolton United Harriers won the men’s team prize and Leigh Harriers the women’s team prize.

The most senior finisher was David Tomlinson from Bolton United, an 80-plus vet who finished in an outstanding 55:11, while Blackburn Road Runners had the most entries from a single club.

Scott Rotheram, race director, thanksed those taking part as well as the race sponsors and associates Scan Computers UK, Spice Valley, Chorley’s Angels, Heritage Frames and Mad Bull Events.

Given that this year’s race was sold out, entries for 2021 will open soon.