ST Helens Striders hosted their first trail race on Sunday, November 1 celebrating their 30 years in existence as a running club.

The 5 mile 'Strider Trail 5' race was held around Carr Mill, Sankey Valley and surrounding areas.

The fog didn't hinder the race or the runners and most finished with smiles on their faces (and muddy legs).

The course proved to be both challenging yet enjoyable with enough hills, mud and beautiful local scenery to make a great trail race.

Cries of 'great marshals', 'lots of support on the course', 'just enough mud' and 'can we do it again next year?' were heard as runners crossed the finish line.

Leading the race home was Steven Anders, St Helens and Sutton AC in 31.02 followed by another local James Allen 31.12.

In 3rd place was Ed Wilson Trentham Running Club in 33.24. 1st female runner to finish was Charlotte Mason, Penny Lane Striders in 33.58.

Second was Hope Rodgers, Winston Runners in 35.41 and 3rd was Alison Drasdo, Trafford AC in 36.24.

1st male vet 40 was Stuart Towns, Wigan & District Harriers & AC, 33.39.

Vet 50 David Collins, Wigan & District Harriers & AC, 34.46 and vet 60 David Waywell, Wesham Road Runners & AC, 43.58.

In the female vet categories 1st vet 40 home was April Morgan, Wigan & District Harriers & AC, 38.10 and vet 50 Jayne Taylor, Wigan & District Harriers & AC 36.34.

With most of the club on race volunteer duties Striders Paul Demore, Danny Fegan, Antony Cheers, Rich Seville, Jono Kirkham and Kevin Outten were able to make up a scratch team in the first race of the North West Cross Country League finishing in 9th place.