Stroud AC runner Lee Stopford made it back-to-back Stroud Half Marathon wins, storming home at the 40th staging of the popular event.
More than 700 runners took part on a day of sunshine and driving rain, but unstoppable Stopford, 37, hit the tape ahead of Bristol & West runner Adam Stokes, clocking a winning chip time of 01:11:23, with Stokes finishing second in 01:11:41. Third place went to Weston Tempo runner Alex Lee in 01:11:50. Stroud AC’s Alastair Campbell crossed the line in fourth in 01:12:27.
“It feels amazing to win again and to do it in Stroud AC colours in one of our own races makes it even better,” said Lee.
“That was my 13th Stroud Half Marathon and they never disappoint. I would like to say thanks to all of the amazing people who volunteered their time in pretty grim conditions. Also, Alan Pitt of Stroud AC who’s an amazing coach.”
Elsewhere, Bristol & West runner Annabel Granger was first female runner home in 01:23:30, finishing 34th overall and Emily Chandler clocked 01:29:36 to become the first Stroud AC female to cross the finishing line.
Familiar faces on the testing 13.1-mile course featured Stroud runner Jeff Waters and Dursley AC veteran Kevin Jackson, who have taken part in every Stroud Half since the race was launched in 1982.
Many runners raised thousands of pounds for charity, including Longfield Community Hospice and The Door Youth Project.
FULL RACE RESULTS
Stroud Half (chiptimingresults.co.uk)
See our gallery of pictures from the race, taken by Matt Bigwood: