MORE than 370 orienteers descended on a new Hampshire course to mark South West Orienteering Association's golden anniversary.

National Trust New Forest Northern Commons was the location for the Sarum Gallopen, the third race in a series of nine for clubs in the South West Orienteering Association.

The rough open ground with hidden marshes and streams challenged competitors.

The top brown course was won by Jamie Parkinson (M21) of Oxford University Orienteers in a time of 47:27, with Ben Chesters (M35), Harry Butt (M20) and Rob Ashton (M21) of Sarum claiming fourth, fifth and sixth places, respectively.

Other notable results for the Salisbury club were posted by Lucy Butt (W21, brown; 18th), Paul Lane (M55, blue; 6th), Mark Hanby (M45, Blue;12th), Martin Goddard (M55, Green; 11th), Peter Hambleton (M70, Short Green, 3rd), Dave Oxenham (M60’ Short Green; 8th), Martin Thirkell, (M45, Light Green; 4th).

"It was a very successful day and shows us that Foxbury has a bright future with orienteering," said Jacob White, community ranger with the trust.

For more information about up-and-coming events, visit sarumo.org.uk.