Stroud was affected by 'St Judes' storm which hit Britain recently but the Half Marathon – though wet and windy – went ahead, albeit in gusting winds and the occasional shower. This race was well attended, being fairly flat and normally produces good times for the near 2000 participants.

Ross Running was represented once again, with three entrants. First home was Laura Lelievre recording a fantastic 1hr 38min in her second Half and in the process taking six minutes off her debut time in Cardiff a couple of weeks before. Lievre, by the way, is French for 'hare', so seldom is a surname more appropriate.

Gavin Jones had a disappointing day by his high standards, finishing just behind Laura and Andrew Pearson followed him in, managing 1hr 44min.

This may be the club's last event before the local New Year's Day run from Foy, but they continue to train, recently welcoming a couple of visitors to Ross on holiday from Sidmouth. The father and son turned up for Ross Running's Tuesday evening run and said they enjoyed their guided tour of the surrounding area– as much as they could, in the dark.

Ross Running meet at The Hope & Anchor car park on Tuesdays at 6pm and Sundays at 10am. Darker evenings mean that this time of the year torches and fluorescent clothing must be worn on Tuesdays and the runs will be on the road rather than off-road. Visit http://www.ross-running.co.uk">www.ross-running.co.uk.

For more stories in full please see this week's Ross Gazette.