Bailey reclaims Trail crown

AND THEY'RE OFF . . . the Royton Trail race gets under way

RUNNERS put their best foot forward in the annual Royton Trail race, which got under way at the Tandle Hill Tavern.

A field of 322 athletes took part.

Joe Bailey, of the Salford Harriers, reclaimed the men's category title - he won it in 2015 - with a time of 29 minutes 28 seconds over the 5.5 miles race distance.

He crossed the line more than 90 seconds clear of Royton Road Runner and reigning champion Rob James (31:13). Ian Grime, of Salford Harriers, was third in 31:41.

In the women's races, Jennifer Bloor (Royton Road Runners) completed the race in 36:36, shaving more than a minute off of her time in last year's event.

Despite being the fastest woman in her category, Bloor was beaten to the overall title by over-40s section runner Sharon Johnstone, who represented Wilmslow RC. She clocked 36:10 seconds.

Royton's Sophie Wood was third overall in 37:15.