On Sunday, December 18, several Honiton Running Club members travelled the short distance to Hemyock to take part in Taunton AC’s Wellington Monument 10k.  

This is the first time the race has been hosted since 2019. The weather had been extremely cold with plenty of ice on the ground but Sunday saw a huge change with rain all day, although it was a little warmer.  

Runners set off from Hemyock Village and, as the name suggests, they run up to the Monument, run around it and then run back down to the finish. The race is mainly road with a short section of bridle path leading to the Monument before coming back to the road. Almost all the climb is within the first 2 ½ miles, which is steep on occasions. 

Steve Davey was first back for HRC finishing in 48 minutes 35 seconds and 64th place. Howard Bidmead was hot on his heels, finishing just 18 seconds and two places later. Howard won his age category prize of over 65. Judy Davey followed, finishing in 53:17, coming 91st and also won her age category prize. The family effort continued with daughter, Emma, finishing in 55:21 in 102nd position.  

The race was won by Chard Road Runner’s Wayne Loveridge in 36:12 and there were approximately 180 runners. They were treated to a warming mulled wine and hot mince pie, as well as collecting a bottle of cider for their efforts.