The 30th annual 10 mile road race organised by Preston Harriers took place last Sunday, from Hutton Grammar School. 433 athletes had entered this popular race, and being on a relatively flat course it is always possible to gain a personal best at this distance.

The conditions were ideal for the runners. There was barely any wind, the temperature was neither too warm or cold and fairly serene and calm for running.  It proved perfect for the winner, as he broke the race record which had stood since 2003, set then by ex-Preston Harrier (now Salford) Billy Burns. The winner, Andi Jones is also from Salford, he broke 50 minutes by winning in 49 mins. 43 sec – Jones is an accomplished competitor and is a GB international on the roads and the fells.

21 members of “Preston Harriers” took part in the race with countless more setting out the course, then taking marshalling positions at strategic points, manning water stations, counting runners in at the finish, serving refreshments and clearing up after the race was over. It was a magnificent effort.

With all of the dedicated help the race ran smoothly and safely. There was also a Police presence at the busy roundabouts and Raynet members were in regular contact, by radio from around the course to keep the finishing team on their toes.

Preston Harrier runners were:- Rob Affleck (1st v40) 54:54, Steve Hallas 56:16, Kingsley Judd 59:31, Richard Lee Kings 61:31, Alan Metcalf (v50) 62:54, Gema Adams 63:37, Christopher Tully 64:30, Stephen Young 65:32, David Brunton (v40) 66:51, David Green 69:37, Gary Vernal 70:29, John Langhan (v45) 71:43, Greg O’Brien (v40) 72:30, Richard Smith 75:08, William Johnstone 75:53, Roisin Turner 77:01, Phil Lakeland (v50) 80:05, Elaine Melling (v35) 83:02, Martin Foley (v40) 86:49, Carl Wynne (v50) 89:01, Bill Buckley (v50) 106:49.

Preston Harriers’ men’s team was first with Rob Affleck, Steve Hallas and Kingsley Judd. The first ladies' team was from Wesham RR with Helen Lawrenson (v40) 67:32, Emma Lund 67:38, Nicola Unsworth (v40) 74:16 making up the three. The race is part of a series of races for Preston Guild Year in 2012 and will take place on Sunday November 18th 2012.