Hundreds take part in White Horse Half Marathon

The White Horse Half Marathon made a return for its 39th edition after it was called off last year due to flooding.

The event, which took place on April 7 and was organised by White Horse Harriers, saw 424 runners, including one dressed as a Mariachi musician, gracing the route.

The route stretched from Grove through Denchworth, Lyford, and Charney Bassett before circling back to Grove.

The first finisher was Matthew Lock, of Witney Road Runners, who completed the run in a time of 71 minutes 36 seconds.

Gareth Smith, a former chairman and now organising committee member of the White Horse Harriers: "A good brisk wind meant the runners had a headwind for much of the second half of the course, making for a more challenging event."

Anna Scrivens, the first woman to cross the finish line, completed her race in a time of 87 minutes 14 seconds.

Ms Scrivens, also from Witney Road Runners, showcased her tenacity against the powerful headwind.

White Horse Harriers said they would like to thank all the volunteers and organisations who made the event possible including St Johns Academy, Grove Rugby Club and Shackleton Explorer Scouts.

They added they would also like to acknowledge the patience of those affected by any traffic disruption as the runners passed through.