Despite the cold and difficult conditions underfoot at the Frank Elford-sponsored fifth Westward Cross Country fixture, hosted by Teignbridge Trotters at Stover School, Newton’s athletes performed well, starting with the U11s’ race which saw Isaac Helyer take seventh spot, followed by Frankie Lobb in 15th and Daisy Gray, in her first cross country race, 28th.

In the U15 girls’ race, Chloe Olford finished second, Amy Smart sixth and Lottie Woods 17th, their efforts securing Newton the second team spot going into the sixth and final fixture at Redruth on March 20.

Toby Hooper showed his consistency with a ninth place in the U15 boys’ race.

In the senior women’s and veteran women’s race, senior Tilly Woods showed again her excellent cross country form by finishing 15th overall and fifth senior. Vet 50 Claire Gillard, who is training for the London Marathon, finished 53rd and maintained her overall V50 ranking of second with one fixture left.

The senior men’s and veteran men’s race saw two Newton V50s fighting it out, with Nick Moore (88th) getting the better of Geoff Woods (98th).

READ THE FULL STORY IN FRIDAY’S PAPER.

ORDER YOUR DIGITAL EDITION HERE http://bit.ly/1BbGeGc