TWELVE Radcliffe AC runners formed three teams to battle wintry conditions in a new fell relay on the moors above Bacup on Sunday.

They were among 25 teams from surrounding areas to take on a demanding 10k course set in the Lee Mill Quarry site organised by Rossendale Harriers. Each team runner tackled the flagged course with the first team runners facing ice and snow on the tops which then thawed making it wet and extremely boggy for those on the next legs.

Radcliffe men's team of Luigi Salzano, John Andrew, Wayne Jennings and Steve Hamer were first home for the club in 17th position in a total time of 4hrs 48mins 06secs. Not far behind in 19th position was another club team of Mark Wolfenden, Rob Andrew, Mark Cartwright and Mauro Rotondi with an overall time of 4hrs 54mins 35secs. A women's team of Fiona Lynch, Susan Andrew Sinead Hayes and made up by Lisa Carter of Bury AC clocked 5hrs 43mins 36secs.

Team captain Hayes commented: "I believe every runner experienced some sleet, snow, mist, wind and lots of rain. But everyone did a great job and we all enjoyed the challenging course."

Icy conditions the day before forced organisers to cancel the popular 5k park runs at Heaton Park and Bolton usually run by club members.