TWO brothers have helped revive hopes of putting a 133-year-old North Pennines agricultural show back on the athletics map.

Jalal Thompson, 14, and his brother, Khalil, 12, picked up the first two places in the first cross-country race to be held at the Weardale Agriculture Society's show at St John's Chapel at the weekend.

The 2.2-mile race replaced an historic fell race, which had been held on show day for many years, before it was wound up four years ago when Wear Valley District Council withdrew its financial support.

In its heyday, the fell race attracted dozens of competitors from all over the North.

Although only a handful of runners took part in the weekend's race, show organisers voted it a great success.

"We will certainly be staging it again next year, and with sponsorship and an array of trophies, we are convinced it can become a firm date on the athletics calendar," said race organiser Joan Warriner.

The race was also voted a hit by Jalal, who finished first in 16 min 22 sec, with Khalil two seconds behind him.

The brothers, who attend Ferryhill Comprehensive School and are members of Shildon Amateur Athletics Club, were encouraged to enter by their father, Ibrahim, a keen runner and former coach for Liverpool Harriers.

"It is a brilliant course. It is very difficult in places and a real challenge," said Jalal.

"We will definitely be back next year to take part."

Third place in the race went to Chris Campbell, from York.

Although there were no sheep or cattle classes at the show - an aftermath of the foot-and-mouth crisis - secretary Mavis Humphrey said they were "well pleased" with the attendance.

One of the biggest number of entries was in the photographic section, where Inspector George Ledger, who is in charge of police at Crook, picked up the two main prizes.