LUDLOW runner Heulwen Gilbert recorded another fine performance to secure her third consecutive win in the Herefordshire Cross Country League.

The 18-year-old lead from the start in tough conditions at Monkhall Farm, beating the rest of the field by over a minute ahead of Wye Valley Runners pair Laura Tootell and Nicky Childs

In the team event, reigning champions Croft Ambrey just held on to register second place thanks to another energetic run from Gemma Mallett in fourth place.

International triathlete Nicky Turvey produced a typically determined run to finish sixth, while 60-year-old Liz Bowers was 16th.

In the race for the league title, Hereford-based Wye Valley Runners hold a valuable two-point lead over Croft Ambrey with Wye Valley ‘B’ and Ludlow equal in third place.

In the men’s race, Croft Ambrey were guided home by a best ever fifth place from the improving Sam Mayglothling.

He was backed up by another forceful run from triathlete Simon Norwood and fighting displays from Dave George and Glyn Williams, who finished in 20th and 22nd positions respectively.

The race was won by Tim Davies of Maldwyn Harriers, who fought off the challenge of Hereford Couriers' Matt James to easily secure victory.

With just one race remaining in the series, Couriers’ men hold a healthy five-point lead over Maldwyn.

Croft Ambrey and Monross are tied in 3rd place.

The fifth and final race in the league series takes place at Presteigne this Sunday.