Frome runners run rings round ruin

The seemingly never-ending rain failed to dampen Frome’s runners’ enthusiasm for the outdoors as the town’s club runners continued to rack up the miles in a range of local events in January, including Beyond the Far Side on 18th January. 

This event gives participants the choice of running a 10K route or completing as many circuits of a 5.3-mile route on the edge of Salisbury Plain as they can manage in six, 12 or 24 hours. Mark Lee completed a total of 42.4 miles in 11:07:12. Alex Chesterton notched up 51.8 miles in 08:59:04. Harry Ebdon managed 26.5 miles in 07:18:38 while Andrew Smallbone also completed 26.5 miles in 05:53:38. 

A small but determined contingent of Frome Club runners was also present at the Slaughterford 9 on 27 January. This multi-terrain race covers nine miles of steeply undulating countryside in the Slaughterford valley, and has an infamous sting in its tail. Ian Holmes (MV50) completed the challenging route in 01:17:19, closely followed by Victoria Penman (FV40) in 01:20:56 and Lynn Brand (FV50) in 01:29:49. 

On the same day over in Amesbury, yet more Froomies were in action, this time at the Stonehenge Stomp. This event offers runners and walkers six multi-terrain distance options from 5 to 40 kilometres. The routes follow bridleways, footpaths and minor roads, offering views of Stonehenge at different points. Sara Elliott and Fiona Norris took on the 30-kilometre option together, completing the route in 04:07:00. Vicki Trundle and Ellie Burford also ran the 30-kilometre option together, posting a time of 04:06:32.

Frome Running Club offers both on and off-road training and welcomes new members, whatever the ability. For more details, visit www.fromerunning club.co.uk.

Picture: Frome runners at the Slaughterford 9.