FINE weather helped to attract 188 participants to the 14th Stockbridge Cross Country event on Sunday.

Track conditions were excellent despite an early frost and the faster competitors really got stuck in and returned circuit record times.

Organiser Jeremy Crossman said particpants at all levels, whether running or on bike, enjoyed the 'unique recipe that makes this event special'.

He described it as a healthy emphasis on having fun while raising money for worthwhile causes. More than £1,700 was taken on the day with proceeds going to local charities, INSPIRE (based at Salisbury District Hospital) and Wessex Heartbeat. Mr Crossman said: "The success of this event has been proven over many years. Yet again we have had a wonderful event.".

Results: Eight mile run - 1, Ian White (44 minutes); 2, John Grainge (46 minutes); 3, Rob Bentley (46 minutes). First woman - Debbie Shepherd (54.30 minutes). Eight mile ride - 1, Lee Garder (33 minutes), 2, Darren Chapple (34 minutes); 3, Robert Herring (35 minutes) First woman, Lisa Baker. Three mile run - 1, John Beadle (27.8 minutes). Three mile ride - 1, Dean Whitlock (24.5 minutes). Particpant spot prize winner - David Hughes (long run).