IT was Hampshire’s newest cross-country course and was straight away deemed as a hit by athletes and enthusiasts.

Athletics coach Ty Lewis, who was also manager of Fawley Parish Council’s recreation services, was the man who designed it.

Lewis told the Echo at the time: “If television ever moves in on cross-country in a big way, you could erect a gantry in the middle of the field and follow the runners all the way.”

These pictures were taken on December 11, 1988, when participants and spectators were impressed with the new track.