More than 100 runners lined up at the Beeches to take part in the Shaw and Whitley Stampede, organised by Avon Valley Runners and DB Max.

The race lived up to its name, when as the runners got underway 20 head of cattle decided to join the race but were fortunately diverted before they could reach the A365.

Heading out through Whitley to Neston and then back through Atworth and Purlpit to Shaw, the runners tackled some of the most technical terrain in the area over the six-mile route.

First home in a time of 32 minutes, 40 seconds was unattached runner Tom Fisher from Westwood, who was a good two minutes clear of his nearest rival.

Michael Towler, of Avon Valley Runners, and Stuart Henderson, of Corsham Running Club, were involved in a sprint finish for the line with the AVR member taking the overall runners-up spot.

In the ladies' race Natalie Burke, of Team Bath, took the honours with a good run in 38 minutes, 58 seconds from club-mate Phillipa Spruit and Julie Humphries, of Alton Runners.

In the men's team race, the Avon Valley Runners trio of Michael Towler, Will Whitmore and Mark Harris took victory ahead of Chippenham Harriers and Corsham Running Club.

The Team Bath grouping of Natalie Burke, Phillipa Spruit and Helen Pettemides ensured a clear victory ahead of Avon Valley Runners and Corsham Running Club.

Other awards went to:
  • 1st MV40 Andrew Holdsworth of Chippenham Harriers
  • 1st MV50 Sean Butler of Chippenham Harriers
  • 1st MV60 Clive Power
  • 1st FV40 Mandy Crust of Kenilworth
  • 1st FV50 Margaret Thompson of Devizes Running Club
  • 1st FV60 Fay Barnes of Avon Valley Runners.