THERE were a bumper 87 runners for the second Summer Solstice Fell race held at Merrivale on the evening of June 20.

These included local runners and a good contingent from Plymouth Harriers, Storm, Plymstock Road Runners, Erme Valley and even a group that travelled from Ilfracombe Running Club.

The weather gave the organisers major problems this year as did the route but almost immediately the cloud started to lift giving time to activate the full race.

Prizes were presented by Megan Fell. Megan, who was born and bred in the Farm at Merrivale, and also ran the race herself.

First home was Chris Huggett from the Royal Marines running club. His time was a fairly staggering 40 minutes 03 seconds – nearly three minutes faster than last year’s winner. First lady was Fleur Dodwell who ran a good race in 50.05. All other results are published on the Fell Runners association web site including those from last year.

One of the organisers, Andy Houghton, said: ‘I’d especially like to thank the PeterTavy and Whitchurch commoners and Okehampton Military personnel for their friendly co-operation.

‘Also the Duchy of Cornwall for allowing the use of their land and to Dartmoor National Park for the essential admin work that has to go into making sure all parties involved are happy for the event to go ahead.’