MEMBERS of Pickering Running Club basked in a winter wonderland at the annual Guisborough Woods fell race held over the festive period, writes Lynn Humpleby.

A fresh sprinkling of snow and bright sunshine greeted the team for the seven-mile gallop around Forestry Commission land, which after a couple of laps of the woods headed up on the moors and down High Cliff Nab.

Not one to shy from a tough run, Russ Grayson made a strong start, fighting hard to finish in 54 minutes 18 seconds and an impressive 23rd out of a strong field of 117 runners.

Enjoying a good tussle around the course were Nick Cousins (59-22), Mike Wilson (59-35) and Andy Blades (59-46) who were playing chase around the route crossing the line in order.

Not far behind was Paul Smith, who dropped a few places behind his team-mates but still finished in a great time of 60-29.

Putting in a fine performance was veteran runner Michael Hetherton, who employed a tried-and-tested pacing strategy to finish in an impressive 64-29.

Next home for PRC was Ian Farrer (67-46) and the first Pickering lady Lynn Humpleby (69-50).

Finishing in fine style was Philly Hare who claimed a category win for her 89-13 effort.

The previous week, two members represented PRC at the 31st annual Poultry Run held at Loftus near Whitby.

Russ Charlton and Hetherton took on the challenge of the eight-mile multi-terrain event and both put in sterling performances.

Nearly 500 participants took part in the seasonal spectacle, which attracts festive fancy dress as well as top-class running.

Putting in a great effort, Charlton made a consistent run to finish in 60-11, just ahead of Heatherton, who clocked 60-48.