NORTHERN Bere Alston Trekker (BAT) Andy Cowden took part in the Alsager 5 mile road race in Cheshire, in perfect cold but sunny weather conditions to finish in a time of 38.12.

A field of just over 900 runners competed in the popular fast early season race. Always attracting a strong field of quality athletes from around the country this year’s winner finished in a time of 24.19.

A rare opportunity was taken by many BATs to join together this weekend, swapping running shoes for something less muddy, to celebrate their achievements in 2017, including their Grand Prix awards, 5K time trial prizes and presentation of the annual trophies.

Grand Prix awards were made for bronze (four events), silver (eight events), gold (12) and platinum (16 events). Many of those receiving an award had only started running on one of the Couch to 5K programmes during the year.

5K prizes were awarded for the fastest time (Murray Turner), best age grade (Derek Hicks), most time trials completed (Hilary Head) and most consistent (Fiona Maddock).

Trophies (voted for by the club members) were awarded for female newcomer to Sam Harte-Latremouille and male newcomer to Colin Putt.

Female BAT of the year was awarded to Julie Page and Male BAT of the year was awarded to Martin Head. Club member of the year was also awarded to Julie Page.

The coaches’ trophies were awarded for Athlete of the year to Rachel Wood and Improver of the year to Hilary Head. The committee stars were awarded to Mary Sargeant and Lisa Birch, and the chair’s award was given to Fran Morgan. Finally there was the award for the most miles run in 2017 which was also made to Fran Morgan.