A RECORD 480 competitors lined up in bright sunshine for the start of 35th Alton 10-mile road race on Sunday, which was won, for the second year running, by Joe Morwood in an impressive 52 minutes 52 seconds.

The Aldershot, Farnham & District AC runner shaved 54 seconds off last year’s time to bring him in well ahead of runner-up Martin Groundsell, of Overton Harriers, in 58.21.

The first lady home was City of Portsmouth AC runner Emma Jolley in 1.02.23, ahead of Helen Cozens, of Fleet & Crookham AC, in 1.03.38.

Alton Runners fielded a strong team with Alistair Morey leading the way as the 41st male finisher in 1.06.28, and Julie Humphries the ninth female finisher in 1.07.58.

The race took competitors from the drive at Treloar College, out through Holybourne and uphill to Binsted before dropping down into Blacknest and Bentley, through Isington and through the country lanes to rejoin the road back into Holybourne, to finish at Eggar’s School.

Organised by Alton Runners and Alton Lions, town mayor Dean Phillips fired the pistol for the start of the race and presented the prizes, the lead car, driven by Philip Baker, was provided by Town & Country Cars at Holybourne, Jerry Janes provided the commentary, and the event was supported by Alton Sports and Wildy Upbeat Printers.

Alton Lions and Alton Runners fielded the marshals, St John Ambulance provided medical cover, and 8th Alton Scouts manned the water stations and refreshment stand.