The annual Gloucester AC Half Marathon at Newent on Sunday took place in warm – maybe hot – conditions and this certainly affected the four members from Ross Running taking part.

There was the usual congenial atmosphere for the 10.30am start from the Leisure Centre with almost 150 competitors. However, out on the road it was 21ºC and getting hotter – something the excellent drink stations and marshalling could not help ease. On a good day the 'undulating', winding course makes for variety but on Sunday it just seemed longer than 13.1 miles! The winning time was one hour 17 minutes.

All finishers got a silver and gold running shoe paperweight and the goodie bag was generous and eclectic; isotonic drinks, Horlicks, mouthwash, a toothbrush and a banana – courtesy of sponsors Wincanton.

The previous weekend was also busy for Ross Running, but with completely different weather. On the Saturday they ran the inaugural Cinderford to Ross Run raising money for the Dilke Hospital. A number of runners, walkers and cyclists braved the frankly awful conditions, finishing at the Hope and Anchor.

Ross Running supplied the winner Glyn Swattridge and the first lady Heather Sealey. It was still drizzly for the event at Haywards School next morning, Sunday: a 5k run raising money for Dean Oak Hospice. Again, a good turn out: walkers, toddlers and runners towed by dogs!

Ross Running run each Tuesday from The Hope and Anchor car park - meeting at 6pm - along the riverbank toward Foy, at this time of year. On Sundays at 10am they run different routes depending on the weather, who is there and how everyone feels.

New members are welcome – please come along. Visit website http://www.ross-running.co.uk">www.ross-running.co.uk