THE SEVENTH running of the Peter Tavy Plod on Bank Holiday Monday saw the race soar in stature prompting one runner to proclaim it 'the best little race in the South West.'

On a warm and sunny afternoon the runners flooded through the village on the multi-terrain five mile route which takes them up to Stephen's Grave via the Combe and back down to Cudlipptown before descending to Longtimber and back to finish in the Village Square.

An undulating scenic route which tests the runners while affording spectacular panoramic views.

The race was keenly contested with runners coming from Truro, Dawlish and a myriad of Westcountry clubs as well as individual unattached athletes.

After a tough race Pete Walmsley of Tamar Trotters came out on top in a time of 27 minutes 48 seconds followed in second place by Chris Champion of Tavistock AC who secured the male veteran category. First female, and fifth overall, was Jo Meek from Tavistock AC in a time of 33mins 03secs while serial winner Sharon Daw of East Cornwall Harriers took the female veteran prize.

Steve Watson took the trophy as local runner in 34.22 while first male and female in the U18s went to Reuben Grice and Claire Fraser respectively.

In conjunction with the main race was a one mile fun run for juniors and overall first place went to James Blackford in 6mins 30secs with Emily Attfield the first girl and third overall in a time of 7mins 15secs.

The race is run as part of the Peter Tavy Village Fayre which takes place annually on August Bank Holiday Monday and offers a fun family day out, the organisers hope to see all runners return next year for a bigger and better event.