There was just one race for Pickering runners last weekend, the Saltergate Gallows, the latest event in the Winter Fell Race Series. The dry, cold weather was good for running this 8.5 mile route over Levisham Moor. Conditions underfoot were muddy and slippery following recent rain making some of the many descents and climbs treacherous. Total elevation was nearly 1,200 feet.

It was an exciting battle for first place, with the top 3 runners within 20 seconds of each other. Robbie Preston kept them in his sights as he made light work of the hills and mud finally finishing in 1 hour exactly, placing him 8th out of 146 finishers. Simon Jones was 3rd M55 with his time of 1 hour 6 minutes with Dave Smith chasing him down in 1 hour 7 minutes. A battle for the finish line then ensued with Mike Richmond and Nick Outram both clocking 1 hour 9 minutes, Mike Richmond just in the lead. Russ Grayson was next in 1 hour 14 minutes, then came Emily Loftus in 1 hour 21 minutes, 9th female, and Mike Wilson in 1 hour 23 minutes. Ruth Kaftirani’s time of 1 hour 26 minutes placed her 3rd F40 and Lucy Saggers also clocking 1 hour 26 minutes was 2nd F55. They were followed by Lynn Humpleby in 1 hour 37 minutes, Serena Partridge in 1 hour 40 minutes and Carol Wilson in 1 hour 42 minutes.

Members of PRC not running volunteered for the many roles needed to ensure a well organised and enjoyable race, all expertly organised by Kim Cavill. Runners and volunteers alike were treated to drinks and homemade cakes in the village hall before the presentation of prizes.