Five podium positions were taken by Chepstow Harriers at the Forest of Dean Christmas Tree race which took place at Ellwood Football Club on Sunday 14th December.

The gruelling and muddy five mile course had competitors wading through bog, twisting and turning through muddy forest trails, leaping over tree roots, bounding over branches, and slogging up a steep hill to the finish.

Many competitors got in the festive spirit and donned Santa hats, tinsel and even reindeer suits.

Matthew Lawson was the first Chepstow Harrier home in fourth place overall, and picked up the first Male Veteran 40 prize.

Andy Creber followed and was first Male Veteran 50, with Neil Grant picking up first Male Veteran 60 prize, making it a clean sweep for Chepstow of the Male Veteran prizes!

Niki Morgan was second female in the race, and Joc Dodd was first Female Veteran 60, so it was a very successful day for the Harriers.

Other Harriers taking part and having fun in the forest were Andy and Gill Stott, Sue Ashton and Syd Wheeler.

Everyone thoroughly enjoyed tucking in to hot soup and mince pies back at the event's centre, and soaking up the festive atmosphere.