Castle Drogo must be one of the most dramatic venues for a race in Devon, which is probably why it always draws a big field, 500 this year, as well as an enthusiastic group from Sidmouth, writes John Perratt.

Ten miles of rough track through stunning scenery interspersed by a few equally stunning hills, sorts the men from the boys. But at 23, it was young Aaron Smith (1h25m53s) in 145th place who again led the local pack home.

Following in Aaron’s wake came two relatively ‘young guns’, Graham Stout (1.26.38) and Philip Welsford(1.26.49), while George Chalstrey(1.31.30), Ian Walker(1.32.42) and Colin Flood(1.34.41) finished within a few minutes of each other.

Next, in the second half of the field, was Sarah Brown who was mighty pleased with her time of 1.49.07.

Terry Bewes (1.52.19) and John Podmore (1.52.36) chatted their way round together, followed by Louise Brown (2.08.48) and Helen Palmer, whose official time was given as over a minute later. This is a mistake, because I distinctly saw them cross the line together, Helen bravely continuing after taking a nasty tumble just after the start.

All the club’s participants were still at the finish to welcome their last colleagues home, which goes to show the wonderful atmosphere which pervades the club.