OKEHAMPTON runners were among those who took up the Torrington Athletic Club's Christmas Caper challenge the week before Christmas.

The North Devon organisers consider that anyone taking part can eat and drink as much as they like over the festive season.

The recent heavy rains made for tough going in this nine and a half mile off road race with mud a-plenty on the route.

Mucksey Lane lived up to its name with water several feet deep in places, followed by forests and fields with a final energy sapping climb to the finish where all runners received a Christmas pudding and a tub of cream.

Six members of Okehampton Running Club took on the challenge along with nearly 200 runners from various parts of the country with most donning festive gear and some in fancy dress.

Club chairman Andy Vallance was the first member home in fifth place with a great time of 1.07.32. Karen Skye has been running some excellent races recently and was the third lady to finish posting a time of 1.20.10.

Alistair Watt followed in 1.26.26 with Lucy Skye 1.27.02 and Chris Jones 1.35.32. Marilyn Cooper was the final member home winning the female vet 55 category prize in 1.38.17.