RUNNER Simon Nott claimed his sixth victory in seven years when he led the field home in the Bishops Cannings 5,000 metre dash at the church fete on Saturday.

Mr Nott from Calne, who is now a student at Bath University, first claimed the title as a teenager. This year he finished in 18.55 just a few seconds behind the record 18.21of Alasdair McClean Foreman.

Organiser Francis Goddard said: "It was a really great day and we are already planning next year's run, for the 34th consecutive year, when we hope to attract a field in excess of 150 as part of the undoubted celebrations that will surround the Queen's 90th birthday.

"Some 80 runners, from as far afield as London and Bristol, took part in the 33rd running of the dash which is universally recognised as probably the most challenging race of its type in the county.

"No new records were set, despite favourable conditions so the challenge at the next running of the race during the celebrations of the Queen's 90th birthday, remains."

Around 80 runners, some of whom travelled from London and Bristol, took part. In the men's race Mr Nott was followed home by Peter Merritt and Peter Veleski.

The first woman home was Denise Grech in 23.28 with Anna Cottle and Catherine Russ in second and third.

Eight times former winner Pewsey runner Mark Anderson, now in the veteran class, led the 50+ group home in 23.10 with Philip Piper the first super veteran, 60+, crossing the line in 27.28.

For the third year in succession Thomas Flynn won the junior section, aged 12 and under, in 23.08, beating most of the adults. Second and third boys were Toby Piper and Jack Colman.

The girls pushed the field all the way with Lottie Brown winning in 27.31 and sisters Pippa and Lottie Royal coming in second and third.

Warm weather also drew a big crowd to the church fete held on the field of Bishops Cannings primary school. Traditional sideshows and stalls plus home made cakes and other refreshments were all a big hit among those who preferred to take it easy rather than take to the hills in their running shoes.

Full 2015 results can be found on the website at www.bishopscannings5000m.org.uk