TAKING part in the Brooks pre-London Fleet Half Marathon meant an early start for Roger Voaden and Brandon Dickons of Okehampton Running Club.

Leaving home at 5.30am they arrived in Hampshire ready to line up with 3,000 competitiors on what turned out to be a hot day for the time of year. Roger, who is in training for the London Marathon, ran his customary strong race to finish in the top 100 runners posting 1hr 22mins 35secs. Brandon, taking part in his first half marathon, completed in 2.09.57.

The well established Parkruns take place up and down the country at 9am every Saturday. These timed 5k runs provide a perfect introduction to racing as well a chance for the more serious athlete to sharpen up.

Jane Jackson, also training for London, went to this week's Barnstaple Parkrun, and was surprised to find as many as 123 runners there. She finished in 23.00 minutes earning herself a diamond uka award.