THE annual Forest of Dean Primary Schools' Cross-Country Championships were held at the Royal Forest of Dean College at Five Acres.

More than 150 Year Four, Five and Six pupils from across the district tackled the 1,600m course. Heavy winds and mud made things tough.

Katie Kearsey of St John's School, Coleford, posted a fabulous time of 8.04mins to win the girls' race.

She finished just a second in front of Megan Creed (Coalway), with Bailey Summers (Parkend) a further two seconds behind. Hannah Jenkins (St John's) and Liddy Smith (Highnam) were next best. Hannah's time was 8mins 27secs, and Liddy's 8mins 35secs.

Highnam's Adam Townsend scooted to victory in the boys' race in an impressive 7.27mins.

Harry Wise (Ann Cam) came second in 7mins 33secs.

Ben Cameron of Severnbanks finished third in a highly respectable 7mins 37secs, while Max Turner (Primrose Hill) and Harry Jenkins (St John's) also made the top five. Max completed the course in 7mins 44secs and Harry in 7mins 48secs.

These young athletes will now represent the Forest of Dean in the Gloucestershire Cross-Country Championships in Berkeley in March.

A second qualifying event will be held at the Royal Forest of Dean College in March.