RUNNERS from across the North West turned out in force to support the annual Joan Rhodes and Fred Norris 5k multi-terrain race in Radcliffe last Sunday.

The race, which incorporates the Northern Masters Championship, was organised by Radcliffe Athletic Club stalwart Jim Rhodes in memory of his wife Joan and  former club member Fred and helped raise £361 for St Ann’s Hospice.

The race was won by Helsby Running Club’s Colin Bishop in 18mins 02secs, beating Horwich RMI’s Robert Jackson by 35 seconds. Neal Emmerson was the leading runner from Radcliffe, claiming third place in 19:08.

Liz McLellan, of Bolton club Burnden Road Runners, claimed victory in the women’s race in 20:46, with Oldham and Royton Harrier Angie Hart second in 25:09 and Bury AC’s Pamela Hitchen third in 25:51.

Radcliffe had 22 members competing in the race and won both team cups.

Emmerson, Ian Warrington and Chris Paxton were the counters for the men and Eileen Royle (27:19), Harley Knowles (28:06) and Zena Knowles (28:07) counted for the women.

Radcliffe had four runners in the top 10. Warrington was fourth in 19:52, Paxton fifth in 20:42, Kris Lee was eighth in 20:45.

Jack Andrew was the club’s leading junior in a time of 21:07.