Parkin leads the way for Stratford AC in Alcester 10k race

DAVID Parkin led home the Stratford AC team in the annual Alcester 10k race on Sunday.

More than 500 competitors followed a one-lap course on lanes closed to traffic, through Great Alne and Haselor, before returning to Alcester.

Parkin clocked an excellent time of 40.54, to claim 17th place overall.

Next up, Karl Harris (83rd, 46.18) was just in front of Roger Wilson, celebrating his selection for England Masters cross-country team with a time of 46.25 and the V65 category prize.

Phil Brennan, 100th (47.15), was second V65, followed by a gaggle of runners around the 50-minute mark.

Lynne Hinson (137th, 48.44, 5th V45) was comfortably inside the mark, with Penny Stainthorp (139th, 49.06) cruising to first V55 prize.

Chris Whately (142nd, 49.17) claimed third MV65 place, while Suzi Graham produced a gritty performance in 163rd (50.53).

Evergreen Alan Coldicott (179th, 52.05) was steady as ever in tenth MV55 spot, while Jean Hill was delighted with 58.56, sixth FV55.

Nicola Reynolds, 329th, was even more pleased to break the one-hour barrier in 59.57.