THE Forest of Dean Athletics Club's Christmas Tree run escaped the worst of the snow, but still came close to being cancelled.

One female competitor fell and broke her wrist, but 74 runners made it to the finish and greatly enjoyed the experience.

The run received a major vote of confidence from the Chepstow Harriers Club, who sent more than 30 competitors.

Setting off from Ellwood, the 5km event seemed to benefit from the snow and frost, which created a true Christmas setting.

This year, a canicross race was held in conjunction to the main run and 17 intrepid dogs and owners from as far afield as Chippenham and Devizes took to the start. Some wore Santa suits and hats, with even the dogs dressed in tinsel.

The canicross competitors were given a two mile start on the runners and hurtled down the hill to a tremendous noise.

Following the runs, Ellwood Football Club laid on hot soup and drinks.

The first four runners home – Paul Murrin, Paul Dodds, Steve Harris and Mark Harvey – all came from Chepstow Harriers.

Paul Murrin's winning time was 29mins 41secs.

Earl Smith was the leading Forest of Dean AC performer, finishing fifth in 31:25.

Runners from the Chepstow Harriers and Parc Bryn Bach RC were grouped in behind, with William Turner (MV50) next best for the Forest, coming 19th in 36:27.

Unattached runner Wayne Bevan was an excellent 14th in 33:57.

The first woman home was Marianne Gittoes (Chepstow Harriers), who was eighth in 32:01.

Matt Heaman (Forest of Dean AC) was 23rd in 37:07, one place and eight seconds in front of club-mate Fiona Turner ( LV50).