SNOW  and  ice rather  than  the normal squelchy mud greeted both the runners and the huskies in this years Forest Christmas Tree Run.

Huskies joined runners for the first time in the 2010 Forest of Dean Athletic Club's five mile annual run through the woods around Ellwood and Parkend.

The huskies, 17 entries in all, were given a two mile head start in a CaniCross race, but hard on their heels (or paws) were the Chepstow Harriers who were champing at the bit.

Running on firmer ground than normal a good pace was set and the entry was up to 119 with runners from Cheltenham and Devizes and even further afield says organiser, Jacqui Wynds.

It's a sure bet  that there will be another Christmas Tree Run next year.

The overall winner of the race (by foot) was Paul Murrin of Chepstow Harriers. First woman crossing the line was Marianne Gittoes, also of Chepstow Harriers,  and first in the CaniCross was Kim Mazzucca.