Times tumble in Rushmere

The free weekly 5k (3.1 mile) event, which is open to runners, joggers and walkers of all ages and abilities, welcomed 59 first-timers, including 30 people who were taking part in their first ever parkrun event.

Despite several muddy sections on the two-lap circuit of Rushmere Country Park’s forest trails, 13 people achieved personal bests.

Sean Robertson was the biggest improver on the day, slashing an incredible five minutes off his previous mark to finish in 27 minutes 22 seconds. Fiona Weekes improved by more than three minutes to stop the clock at 30:59, while James Smith lowered his personal best from 26:07 to 24:56.

Jacqueline Hart was almost a minute faster than her last outing in 32:11.

The standout improvement in the juniors was Joseph Bidlake-Hull who broke the magical 30-minute barrier for the first time, recording 28:41.

Paul Williamson was the first person to complete the course in 19:24, followed by Jon Oxley and debutant William Ralston in just over 20 minutes.

Laura Gush set the pace for the women in 24:18, with Charlotte Keane the first junior female in 27:43.

Registration is free at www.parkrun.org.uk/rushmere or email [email protected] for information.