Four NFRs ventured south to join over 400 others hoping to see some English Championship action. Squashed in between the stone walls of the narrow Yorkshire lanes made for a difficult start as runners jostled for position, before the steep climb up to Coldwell Hill (well named given the day's wet, misty and windy conditions). A quick turn around at the top, a steep descent and then it was 'as you were', so another sharp climp to the Stoodley Pike monument.

From then on it was pretty much a tough grind over the moors, dodging runners falling knee deep (and occasionally face first) in the soddon peat bogs and snow.

Phil Sanderson led us home, putting in an outstanding performance among the English elite (17th overall and 4th V40). Full results are up on Todmorden Harriers website, with Trevor Wakenshaw, David Johnson and Lee Bennett also running.

Lee Bennett