On 11th December, two Honiton Running Club members took part in the Plym Trail Series, with both producing superb performances.

Stephen Boyes enjoyed an excellent run in the marathon, finishing 7th in three hours 46 minutes. The race was won by Ross Portass in just over three hours and there were 24 finishers.

Jennie Sleeman had a fantastic race in the half-marathonto finish first lady and second overall in a time of 1:54. The winner was Mark Thomas in 1:45 and there were 28 finishers.

This followed Jennie being awarded the Cross-Country Trophy at the Club’s annual awards during the Christmas party the night before. The races have their base at Clearbrook, Devon and are organised by First and Last Running.

On Sunday, 12th December, Kevin Hawker took part in the Escot Jolly Marathon. He had not raced for over two-and-a-half years, so was extremely chuffed to win it in a time of 3:34.

The marathon consists of laps of pathways, woodland trails and fields, where, in one of the fields, nestles the 30-metre optional waterslide specially made for the Escot hill. For this marathon, there are six chances to take on the slide, as the route is a lap of six times.

The rest of the route is muddy and hilly. Olivia Killen and Kathy Layzell ran the half-marathon together, thoroughly enjoying themselves singing carols and Christmas songs, having a laugh and embracing the long fast water slide to finish in 2:53.

Honiton Running Club host sessions on a Monday and Wednesday night, with potential new members welcome to come along and enjoy the wonderful benefits, physical and mental, that come with regular outdoor exercise.

The superb club website www.honitonrc.com is packed with information, including specific documents for new members, with the joining fee just £18, plus £5 for a club vest.

On the website, you will also discover 40 different club runs, detailing routes in fabulous East Devon locations, including Upottery, Tipton, Kilmington, Offwell Valley, Newton Poppleford, Feniton, Branscombe and more.

There really is no better time to join, blow off some of the Christmas excess and marvel at spectacular local scenery.