YOUNG runners took a long trip to Leicester to race in the National Primary Cross Country Championships.

Running under the banner of Monmouth, 14 pupils from four schools strode out in the inspiring grounds of the historic Prestwold Hall.

The fleet-footed runners tackled an undulating 2.2km course, which was where the UK Inter Counties Championships were held two weeks earlier.

Osbaston Primary’s William Chalk came 22nd out of 315 boys in the Year 5 race, crossing in 7 minutes 35 seconds with Matthew Powell from Monmouth School Boys’ Prep placing 67th in 7.58.

Berry Hill Primary’s Toby Grindle (8.40) and Monmouth Prep’s Josh Powell (8.42) were next home, while the latter’s schoolmate Will Adams and Osbaston’s Henry Masters both recorded exactly the same time (9.00).

Racing was close in the 343-strong girls’ race, with Jess Stentiford top local youngster in 74th (8.39), in an eight-strong team drawn from Monmouth School for Girls’ Prep.

Other finishers were Romy Farquhar (9.10), Kezia Lloyd (9.37), Grace Lewis (9.39), Lara Crewe-Read (9.42), Isabella Taylor (9.45), Verity Ainsworth and Seren Wall.

Any keen runners in Years 4 or 5, at school or living in Monmouthshire, who would like to compete in next year’s race, can contact the team organiser at [email protected]