THE penultimate race of the Herefordshire Winter Cross Country series was held at Monkhall Farm and incorporated the Herefordshire Cross country championships, where Herefordshire born runners could compete for individual and team honours.

Monross Trailblazers had their best representation to date, with nine runners donning the green vest, plus some thermal layers to combat the mid January cold.

The route had been changed since the last time the event was held, so a total of 143 runners set off into the (relative) unknown, vying for position at the finish line 5.8 miles away.

A short climb from the start began to thin the runners out and sheep scattered as the runners bolted down through the fields into woodland.

Andy Stephens maintained position towards the front of the pack, even after competing in a fell race the previous day.

Luke James, Gavin Jones, Phil Thomas and Barry Davies kept close, not wanting to give any quarter until Gavin was forced to drop out through Injury.

Into the woodland and a short but testing climb retained from last year's course was made especially tricky because of thick mud. After a second lap of the woodland section was complete, the runners stretched out for home and a last climb before the finish.

Andy Stephens finished in an excellent third place (41.35). Luke James was next Monross runner to finish in 17th place (45.13) with Barry Davies snapping at his heels (45.14).

Phil Thomas was just a few places behind in 24th (46.08) while Matt Hall, David Knapper and Sam Harness completed the mission in 38th, 42nd and 46th respectively, with just minutes between them.

Vanessa Ball completed the Monross contingent in 60.19. The team really appreciated the support of team captain Richard Bevan, who is close to returning to fitness after injury.

After this strong team performance, Monross are joint third in the league with one race remaining at Presteigne on the 1st of February.