Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton was among the runners who braved the cold conditions for the Rough 'n' Tumble race at Milton Lilbourne near Pewsey on Sunday.

A record 677 people had decided to brave the frozen conditions.

But the weather looked favourably on the vilage of Milton Lilbourne as a thaw set in making conditions underfoot much better for the runners.

A new course record was set by Gareth Watkins of the Army Athletics Association in 1.06.23 who was exactly 2 minutes in front of second placed Tom Fisher.

In the ladies race, veteran Fiona Ross-Russell of City of Salisbury AC came home first in a time of 1.25.51.

Also competing in the ladies race was BBC Blue Peter presenter Miss Skelton, who after finishing was then made to run another seven miles by her Personal Trainer as part of her preparation for a desert endurance event she is competing in in April. Filming of her run at Rough 'n' Tumble will be broadcast on Blue Peter on 20th Jan 2009.

Chippenham Harriers had a good day with their Ladies winning the team prize and husband and wife Paul and Joc Dodd clinching the veteral prize for over 50 and 55 respectively.

This year proceeds from the race will be used to purchase new chaies and tables for Milton Lilbourne Village Hall in memory of Mrs Betty Deadman, the village hall booking clerk who sadly passed away last year.

Race organisers, Steve and Julie Goulding though the event was a grest success and would like to thank everyone who helped out and are looking forward to Rough 'n' Tumble 2010.

See the link on the right for race results and finishing times