SODDEN , muddy ground and drizzling rain could not keep a group of young runners away from their cross country running.

The youngsters aged between nine and 11 were taking part in the first cross country tournament hosted by Merton Court School in Knoll Road, Sidcup.

Thirty-four teams from seven schools with separate boys’ and girls’ teams of under-10s and under-11s were competing for the trophies.

The teams consisted of four runners who each had to complete one 800m lap of the field.

The winning teams were those whose fourth runner crossed the finish line in the fastest time.

The schools taking part were Merton Court; Babington House, Chislehurst; Bishop Challenor, Shortlands; Braeside, Bromley; Blackheath High School; Blackheath Preparatory School and Farringtons, Chislehurst.

Overall race winners were Merton Court.

Merton Court A team won the under-10 boys race, with its C team in second place.

Merton Court’s boys’ under-11 A team was also first in the boys’ under-11 race, with Blackheath Preparatory School second.

The girls’ under-10 and under-11 races were won by Blackheath High School with Blackheath Preparatory School runners-up.

It is hoped the tournament will become an annual event.