ORGANISERS of the Forest of Dean Half-Marathon have disqualified this year's ladies' winner because she ran under a false name.

The disqualification means they are now trying to get trophies back so they can redistribute them to the right people.

Abigail Sailard was hailed as the first female finisher in an excellent time of 1hr 24mins 41secs.

However, the real Abigail Sailard did not even run – with her place taken by Flo Dannah.

Forest Half-Marathon spokesman Chris Hammersley said: "It's very sad because the lady in question is obviously a very talented runner. She took the place of someone who was injured, but still said nothing even through the presentation when we were calling her Abigail.

"She admits she has been stupid. She is building a reputation as an athlete and this doesn't do her any good."

A total of four runners were disqualified for running under other people's name this year – including a man with a beard who ran as a woman! Such contraventions can have big implications should an athlete need medical attention.

Katie Beecher of Les Croupiers Running Club is now the official winner of this year's ladies' race. She was originally placed second after coming home in 1hr 27mins 38secs.