THE Christmas Caper hosted very efficiently by Torrington Amateur Athletics Club went ahead with a slightly altered route to allow for crossing the river Torridge, which had broken its banks after the deluges of the week before.

Among those taking part were members of the Okehampton Running Club.

The 9.5 mile route was even wetter and muddier than usual, claiming several fallers along the water filled farm lanes, muddy tracks and soggy fields. There was an international flavour with runners from Australia, San Domenico and Germany taking part among the 215 contestants.

Okehampton Running Club members who took part were: Paul Carter who came in 22nd with a time of 1hr 07mins 59secs. Mervyn Rice finished in 1.18.11 just ahead of his daughter, Jenny, 1.18.54. Marilyn Cooper's 1.31.18 won her a prize for the second placed F55, and Sarah Haigh who clearly enjoyed her debut in this race posted 1.41.16.

This event was a great start to the season's festivities with many competitors and marshals wearing suitable attire and all runners being presented with a large Christmas pudding and pot of cream at the finish.

n Okehampton Running Club wishes all readers a very happy new year and invites anyone who wishes to join them to come along on any Tuesday and Thursday at 6.15pm at Okehampton Rugby Club.