The Springfield Striders trail runners were out in force at Great Blakenham on Sunday, where the course passed through two vast country estates and farmland to the north west of Ipswich.

Andrew Mason's high mileage training paid dividends as he finished as first Strider by a comfortable margin.

Dave Milton and Ken Edwards followed 15 minutes later in a time of 3.05, with Kevin Wright (3.20) and Brian Reid (3.50) taking a more leisurely approach.

Helen Walker competed in a shorter route along the Gipping Valley and finished well up the field.

Trail racing appears to be taking off in this area, as there were over 100 competitors taking part in this event, which was hosted by Colchester Harriers.

The Striders organise four trail races throughout the year, the Terling Trek at Easter, the Springfield Stride (July 4), the Downham Dawdle (August 15) and the Hylands Hobble (November 14).

Trail running involves following a course by means of a narrative route description which is issued at the start.

The courses are usually off road and follow footpaths and bridleways passing through the most scenic areas of the county.

Anyone interested in trying a trail race is asked to telephone Kevin Wright on 01245 467117 for details.

The Striders road runners will be out in force this weekend at the Hatfield Broad Oak 10K.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.