ST Helens Striders recently travelled to Astley Village in Chorley for the first of a four part summer race series.

The new 4.4-mile trail race takes runners on an undulating journey around the tracks and trails of Astley Park replacing what has been a very successful 4-mile road race.

The new race attracted a very competitive field from many local running clubs.

The Striders Ladies team had much to celebrate after Joanne Billinge, Rachael Fishwick, Carol Foster and new member Ana Quintana finished in first place.

It was a close call between Joanne and Rachael, both finishing in 36:31, closely followed by Carol (37:33) and Ana (39:03).

Gary Carney, Roy McHale, Colin Leyland and Alex Jackson represented the Striders Men’s team and finished 7th.

Gary Carney clocked the fastest Striders time of 29:53 finishing in the top 40, with Roy (32:04), Colin (34:08) and Alex (38:21) all finishing in highly respectable times.

Anyone interested in joining the St Helens Striders can visit our website on www.saintsrun.co.uk or alternatively, call Les on 01744 23160.