RUNNERS from far and wide flocked to St Arvans for the inaugural Chepstow Harriers St Arvans 10-mile multi-terrain race.

Tired but happy finishers said they enjoyed the variety of scenery and running surface, with farm tracks, woodland paths, country lanes to tackle plus plenty of challenging hills and swooping descents.

The Village Hall was crammed afterwards with runners and their families , all enjoying the tea and home-made cakes provided by the Harriers.

Among the happy prizewinners were first-placer Matthew Wells from Bridgend who finished just ahead of Sean Taylor of Griffithstown Harriers and third-placer Fukashi Maeno (unattached).

Chepstow's own Kath Matthews was first woman ahead of another Chepstow stalwart, Niki Morgan, with Griffithstown's Julie Davies third.

The men from Griffithstown and Chepstow's women won coveted special edition running mugs for best teams.

Steve  Cunliffe of Forest of Dean AC had a top ten finish in 1:15:38.

Race director and St Arvans resident Lou Summers said afterwards: "We're so grateful to the village for the use of the hall and the field for parking, and to the local farmers for welcoming the runners through their land. It has been big success and we look forward to it going from strength to strength next year."

Profits will help run the Harriers' Junior Athletics Club.