A RECORD number of runners competed in the Beacon Race's 50th anniversary event on Saturday with Bill Nock (Halesowen A&CC) first past the post.

Nock, a previous winner, completed the seven-mile race in 41 minutes 51 seconds, over a minute in front of second-placed Chris Beecham of Highgate Harriers in 43.00, who was last year's winner.

In third place was Matthew Collins (MDC Club) in 43.04.

First lady home was Megan Clark (Hunters Bog Trotters) in a respectable 50.17, with Angie Sadler (Cheltenham Harriers) in second place and first lady vet (O35) in 53.01. Third was Celia Mills (Kenilworth Runners) in 56.31.

First local man home was David Wilcox (Worcester AC) who finished eighth in 46.49 and first local lady home was Anita Farr (Malvern Hash) in 60.31.

Halesowen harriers won the team prize.

The race, which starts and ends on Malvern's Rose Bank Gardens is over seven miles and includes a climb over the Worcestershire Beacon.

Race sponsor John Brook said: "We are extremely pleased with the record turnout, it was a good race and a brilliant day."

The event was organised by Worcester Athletic Club, who hosted a special 50th anniversary dinner at the Worcestershire County Cricket Club in New Road during the evening which was well attended and was enjoyed by five previous winners including runners from the mid-Fifties.

- Pictures of all runners who competed in the 2003 Beacon Race can be found on the website www.cellopix.co.uk.