RUNNERS overcame the uncomfortable summer sunshine in the Salisbury 5-4-3-2-1 off-road event to deliver a string of stellar performances.

Featuring courses that pass five rivers, four hills, three country estates, two castles and the cathedral the day’s racing was taken on by more than 1,100 runners and walkers.

In the half marathon, City of Salisbury’s Kevin Tilley showed good form for the coming road season and took sixth place at the Fire Station finish with a run of 1hour 38min 49sec.

Equally pleased was the versatile Sarah Kemp, whose 1.42.23 earned a fine first place in the women’s race, and she was closely followed by Mike White with 1.45.06 for third place in his age category and Fiona Pengelly 1.49.01. Jo-Anne Gready was next with 1.51.19 and then came Mel Murphy 2.08.40, Sue Howland 2.30.27 and Kathryn Dreyer 2.38.43.

Notable feature of the 33k event was the return of Faye Parker, one of the club’s outstanding road runners until injury forced her withdrawal from competition many months ago. She opted for a steady run in company with clubmate pacers Phil Smith and Stuart Holloway, all clocking a steady 3hours 14mins. Katie Clements was timed at 4.05.50.

At the full marathon distance of 42k, Rithy Hy continued his great form to record 3.22.43, fast enough to win his age category. Then came Steve Auton with 3.59.03, Chrissy Gorham 5.35.01 and John Gorham 5.37.21.

Salisbury’s mile-eating Liz Roberts was the club’s only contender in the day’s longest event, at 50k, and commendably she finished in 6.08.10 for third place in her age group.

The men's event saw Steve Way successfully defend his title and shave five minutes off last year's winning time with 3.18.37.

All proceeds raised went to the Firefighters Charity.

For full race details, visit salisbury54321.com.