THE annual Wymondham 20-mile road race continues its popularity in the racing calendar with the entry limit of 350 reached well in advance.First organised by Wymondham AC in 1989, the event is used by many runners to assess their fitness and endurance for the London Marathon.

THE annual Wymondham 20-mile road race continues its popularity in the racing calendar with the entry limit of 350 reached well in advance.

First organised by Wymondham AC in 1989, the event is used by many runners to assess their fitness and endurance for the London Marathon. Starting at the picturesque Market Cross, the route took the runners through medieval streets out on to quiet country lanes via High Oaks, Deopham and Morley to finish close to Wymondham Abbey.

Perfect running conditions produced some excellent times. Craig Holgate (Ely Runners) successfully defending his title from last year, crossed the finish line in 1-55:53. The only other athlete who managed to beat the elusive two- hour mark was Simon Hobbs (Norwich Road Runners) finishing in 1-58:11. Tamara Jordan (Stowmarket Striders) had an outstanding run, comfortably winning the ladies' race in 2-11:32.

With most Wymondham AC members helping with the event, only three took part as competitors. Leading the WAC members home was Nick Baldwin in 2-34:21. Steve Cuviello, who ran a personal best in the Sleaford Half-Marathon only a week ago, finished in 2-52:26, followed by Naomi Hawkins in 3-01:30. All were helped along by encouragement from the 50-odd club members working as marshals.

Race director Karl Chapman said: 'We are really pleased with the way the event went and the changes made to the route worked well. We had numerous positive and favourable comments from the competitors, many of whom have already promised to be back next year.'