Western Event Hire shelters cross country volunteers

Early January saw record levels of runners in the England Athletics South West Cross Country championships held in the beautiful grounds of Bicton College in East Devon.

This event brings together the top athletes from across the region for a high level competition. Sponsored by Western Event Hire and South West Athletics CIC this event has grown in scale and entry levels over the last few years since being organised by South West Athletics Academy.

Western Event Hire supported the many volunteer officials that help to make these events such a major success by providing marquees for the refreshments area and competitors shelter which looked fantastic on the lawns in front of the Georgian Manor House.

Event director Sonya Ellis said: "We were delighted to have over 750 runners take part this year and there were some fantastic high standard races. I also want to thank all our volunteer officials, Gamesmakers and marshals.

"I particularly wanted to thank the younger volunteers this year as it is great to see them getting involved. We have had some great feedback across the board with lots of people wanting to either race, spectate or volunteer again next year. I would also like to thank our sponsors who are vital in making these events a success.”

This year saw the return of a development race for under under 11s to give young children a taste of what it is like to compete at a regional competition. Sponsored by South West Athletics CIC, whose aim is to encourage athletics in the community, over 100 young children raced around the 1.5km course. Medals to all the main race winners were presented by Chris Maddocks, race walker who has competed at 5 Olympic Games.