Meanwhile on the other side of the Peak District, Ashby-De-La-Zouch was hosting its own 20 mile race. The mainly rural route is quite scenic – the start is at the foot of a ruined castle dating back to the Norman conquest – and fairly undulating. A testing two lap course.

Two Striders represented us, Lucy Smith and Tony Horstead. Tony informed us that Lucy was chased for 20 miles by a man in a gorilla suit. Whatever works!

The race was won by Matt Adcock, running for Hermitage Harriers, in 01:49:10. First lady was Emily Ault, in 02:09:56 for Barrow Runners.