THE SUN shone and there were more than 1000 pumped-up runners – it was indeed the Forest of Dean Half Marathon.

Only two weeks ago, the snow and ice forced organisers of the event to cancel but the weather front was highly contrasting on Sunday as hundreds took to the forest to run the highly-anticipated race.

Race Director, Chris Hammersley, said: "The race went brilliantly and although we were slightly down on the turnout, postponing the event turned out to be the best thing to do as the good running conditions meant we had great running times. We offered those who couldn't make it on the day run in the next two races. It was a very close finish among the final three runners who came in within seconds of each other."

Oliver Williams who was running for the Cardiff-based running club, Les Croupiers Running Club, was the first man to come in at 1hr 16mins 33 seconds. Only 11 minutes behind was the first lady Katherine Matthews, who was running for the Chepstow Harriers and came in at 1hr 27mins 46 seconds. For the second year running, Stephen Hale from Lydney was the first Forest man to cross the finish line in an impressive 1hr 20mins 39 seconds. While fellow Lydney runner, Sheridan Ives was the first Forest lady and she came in at 2hr 38 mins 14 seconds.

Chris added: "We wish to congratulate all of the racers and say a big thank you for all the support and cooperation of the Forestry Commission, Speech House, Forest of Dean Motor Club, the Highways Agency, St John's Ambulance and army of volunteers."