Grantham Running Club compete in the final fixture of the North Midlands Cross Country League at Bulwell Hall Park
Bulwell Hall Park was the venue for the final fixture of the season's North Midlands Cross Country League with 10 hardy members of Grantham Running Club making the trip.
After a week of freezing, icy weather and with a foggy morning to start, the afternoon turned out sunny which was very welcome.
The women's 6K two-lap race was first and, despite the sun, the air was sharp and it was still a bit on the chilly side with some very hard, uneven ground underfoot which was a challenge for feet, ankles and knees.
Marj Spendlow, who has taken part in all four of the fixtures, was first back for Grantham in 29.47.
She was followed by Grantham's women's team captain Sarah High who finished third in her age category.
The ever consistent Caroline Davis finished a few seconds later.
For the men's three-lap 10K race, the Grantham runners all started strongly and pushed themselves around the course.
Men's vice-captain Russel Whittaker put in a strong performance to finish first for the club in 32.51.
Peter Bonner, who put in a great effort, was back second in 37.48 and was followed by the ever improving Peter Jennings.
Next to finish was Rob Howbrook, who is returning to fitness, but still battled to finish third in his age category.
Cross country regulars Craig Drury and Andrew MacAllister completed the team, both putting in a sterling effort.
Unfortunately, Jack Holroyd sustained an ankle injury on the first lap and had to withdraw from the race.
However, he has already confirmed that this has not deterred him and he will be back for more cross country next season.
Yet again the event brought out the super team support and camaraderie that has been a feature throughout the season.
As a club, Grantham are looking forward to next season and are encouraging more members to give it a go.
The overall results by age category after the four races saw Marj Spendlow third and the Grantham women's team fifth overall.
The men had Russel Whittaker fourth in age category, Craig Drury seventh and both Peter Jennings and Andrew MacAllister third.