THE weather was kind to all but the stragglers during yesterday's Richmond 10k Run.

The temperatures were cool, but the forecast rain did not materialise until well after the leading pack had crossed the finish line, although the fun-runners and the less athletically inclined got a little damp.

About 450 people took part in the event - some travelling from as far as London and Aberdeen to take on the picturesque but challenging route which has its fair share in inclines.

Spokesman for organisers the Swaledale Road Runners, Norman Bell, was pleased with the turnout.

"It was a good day - a very satisfactory event," he said.

Taking the honours in the men's competition was soldier Rod Leach, who was followed home by Morpeth Harriers' Chris O'Connell and Richard Kay.

Alison Raw of Darlington Harriers was the winning woman, with Erika Nutter, of Ripon Road Runners, second, and Susan Milburn of Newton Aycliffe Athletics Club finishing third.

After the race was run, organisers handed £1,000 from the proceeds to the Easby Riverside Restoration Project, which is raising money for repairs to the Drummer Boy Walk, parts of which were used during the run.