While much of the country was bathed in sunshine with everyone heading for the beach, Istead and Ifield’s harriers were taking part in races across the country.

Made even more difficult than usual due to the high temperatures, the most popular event was the always challenging Canterbury Half Marathon, where eight members completed the scenic but hilly countryside course. First club finisher was veteran Alan Cowan, in 99th position from 805 runners. There was also an impressive run by Verity Bradley making her first appearance for the club and finishing in just over 2 hours.

Closer to home, three club runners took part in the Myra Garrett 10k race held in Danson Park. Simon Parrin had his third successive top ten position in the race, and finished in an impressive 5th place overall from 203 runners.

Meanwhile, on an unusually warm day in Edinburgh, father and daughter Barry and Alison Bell both ran well in the Edinburgh Marathon, with Alison coming in 16 minutes ahead of her father. There were over 13,000 finishers in Scotland’s most popular road race.

Results: Canterbury Half Marathon: Alan Cowan 99th 1:40:48; John Gillis 195th 1:48:26; Nick Claydon 261st 1:52:12; Mel Moore 286th 1:53:43; Verity Bradley 452nd 2:04:37; Jason Beaney 540th 2:09:57; Margaret Mary Cowan 730th 2:31:02; Barbara Webling 753rd 2:38:22.

Myra Garrett 10k: Simon Parrin 5th 37:46; Richard Storr 69th 50:13; Bob Carter 122nd 56:41

Edinburgh Marathon: Alison Bell 1766th 3:48:26; Barry Bell 3003rd 4:04:26.