RUNNING: Despite the postponement of the weekend's Norwich Half Marathon due to the early winter weather, North Norfolk Beach Runners have been busy on the cross-country circuit.

Darren Neale and Paul Muffett were outstanding at Horsford, both covering the gruelling woodland course in 47:22. Darren came in as first senior man and Paul finished second in the 50/54 age group with a welcome return to something like his best race form.

John Christopher also ran an excellent race to take second place in the the 45/49 category with a very useful 48:13, with Ian Wade and Matthew Parfitt also running well despite the muddy conditions.

On the slightly shorter ladies' course, Emma Dennis had a good run for sixth place in the senior ladies' race with a time of 47:32.

The previous weekend Ryston Runners 5k Cross Country was held in the somewhat drier woods at Shouldham Warren.

The prolific prize-winning season of the remarkable Richard Blake continued as he picked up yet another prize in the Over 60s with a quick time of 19:25.

Also at Shouldham Warren were father and son, Ian and Chris Wade. Ian was in excellent form, chasing his son all the way to the line and finishing just 10 seconds behind with a time of 21:20.

Malcolm Ball took to the streets of Brighton for the Brighton 10k. With an excellent time of 51:16, he comfortably finished in the top half of the huge field and took third place amongst the Over 70s.