SPIRIT Of Monmouth Running Club had a record number of runners that turned out for the last Gwent Leisure Centre League Cross Country, organised by Usk Runners and held at Usk College.

The club had full teams for both the mens and ladies for the first time since they joined the league several years ago, with six men and five ladies taking part in the event on a new course for the league.

Russell Finch was the first man home for the club in 62nd place followed by Martin Blakeborough in 86th place and then club chairman Jeremy Creasey in 108th place out of 140.

Also finishing for the mens team was David Mather, Lee James and Tony Hardy.

The first lady home was Emma King in 29th place, then Emma Davies was 53rd and Trish Bicknell was 102nd out of 113 female runners, followed by Vicky Evans and Sarah Clifton.

The next cross country is taking place in January, organised by Islwyn Running Club, and they are hoping to improve on their current standings.