SPIRIT of Monmouth runners stormed the castle on Saturday in the latest Gwent League X-Country race.

Katie Adams, Sarah Heath, Vicky Roberts, Renske Bouwens, Claire Finley, Fay Visser and Julie Gee all enjoyed racing the three-lapped course around the Blaise Castle Estate in Bristol, totalling four miles of grassy and wooded trail paths.

They faced a tough field of strong competition, but managed to put on a good race with Sarah winning her age group and the team coming second overall in Division Three, leaving them third over the whole series to date.

The men's team of Matt Visser, Barry Burns, Brian Evans and Mike Visser also had a great day, running three larger laps of the estate for 5.5 miles in total and taking eighth place in Division 4, leaving them seventh overall so far.

Also on Saturday, Nick Sloper, Phil Chadwick, Cathy Fletcher and Abigail Buckley raced at the Machen Trail Half Marathon, full of hills around Rudry, and muddy going with some water crossings.

Phil, who finished in 3 hours 12 mins 23 secs said: “Running it last year, it was far, far harder than I expected and I suffered accordingly.

"This year I tried to dial it back at the start but pretty soon found myself even walking on the uphills at a 10k HR, so I just ran it that way.”

The Spirit team said there was great camaraderie this year, with everyone in good spirits and helping each other, which helped as it was so muddy and steep, despite the race having spectacular scenery and fantastic organisation.

Abbie and Cathy finished together in 3.15.22, while Nick was close behind in 3.22.50.

Sunday saw the annual Santa Fun Run organised by Spirit of Monmouth RC, which saw a fabulous 300 Santas, fairies, Christmas trees and other festively dressed runners taking part.

Due to the Inglis footbridge being closed onto Vauxhall, a new venue had to be found this time.

The SoM team were very grateful that Monmouth Sports Association stepped in and offered them their grounds and facilities to host the event, and thanked them for the support they offered on the day.

Spirit would also would like to thank Welsh Water for their generous donation again this year.

Race director Helen Dunn said: “Although we missed the sight of everyone running up Monnow Street, the event seemed to have a good atmosphere with Christmas music being played and hot drinks and mince pies being sold in the pavilion.

"We are not yet in a position to give a definite amount that will be donated to Bridges Centre, but we are hoping it will be in excess of £ 1,500.

"Our thanks also go to all the Spirit of Monmouth volunteers that made the event such a success."

Meanwhile, Spirit of Monmouth's annual Couch to 5k starts on Tuesday, January 14, at 6.50pm at Monmouth School Sports Complex on Hadnock Road.

The Couch to 5K is for everyone, whether you've never run before or you just want to get more active.

It's a nine-week course leading to a graduation 5k parkrun, and is an easy way of getting fitter and healthier.

The cost to take part is £20, and anyone interested can email [email protected] to register or for more information.