WITH all 500 places sold out a week before the event, the annual Tavy 7 road race proved more popular than ever in 2016.

The seven-mile race on Sunday on the Plasterdown course saw frantic exchanges on social media ahead of race day as runners tried to get places from those unable to compete.

Strong winds gusting at over 20 miles per hour making it difficult for the lead runners.

Local Tavistock Athletic Club runner Jim Cole led the men’s race from gun to tape, but he was unable to get close to his course record of 37.16.

Fellow Tavistock AC runner Ben Neale ran well on his recovery from injury to pick up second in 41.23 and Torbay AC veteran Pete Monaghan was third in 41.46.

In the ladies’ race former Tavistock athlete Maddie Horton had a real attack at the course record of 44.12 set bt Amy Yetton in 2012.

Maddie worked hard to finish seventh overall and knocked 44 seconds off the record to win in 43.28 and pick up a £50 bonus for setting the new record.

Eevee-May Banbury from Torrington AC was second in 46.01 and Tavistock’s Sam Lake third in 46.19.

Tavistock picked up the team prizes in both the men’s and ladies’ races, despite tough competition from Tamar Trotters, Plymouth Musketeers and Plymouth Harriers.

With over 460 finishers there were many runners commenting on the delightful, beautiful Dartmoor course, the friendly atmosphere and excellent organisation.

While the main Tavy 7 run took place there was a fun run with almost 150 runners. Tavistock Athletic Club also re-introduced the Tavy 7 Cup, a competition for primary schools.

Whitchurch, Tavistock and Horrabridge schools entered a total of 70 runners who enjoyed the testing 1.5-mile course.

Whitchurch won the team event for both the Year 3 and 4 and Year 5 and 6 age groups.

Martin Exley-Deane, race director, said: ‘Everyone has had a great day out and it’s a pleasure to see so many smiling faces around.

‘I’d like to thank all the helpers from Tavistock Athletic Club, our major sponsors Ocean BMW and Mansbridge Balment and most importantly land owners Antony Sirant and Katie Warnes.

‘Without their help this fantastic event wouldn’t be possible.’

Full results can be seen at www.tavy7.co.uk.