BACK in 2010, nearly 370 runners joined the third Hestercombe Humdinger.

The event was organised by Taunton’s Running Forever Running Club and included a £50 incentive for breaking the course record helped attract a large and competitive field to the third Hestercombe Humdinger in February 2010.

The runners completed the 9½-mile course centred on Hestercombe Gardens and nearly 50 participate in the Hurtle 5k Run.

Oliver Berry, of Taunton AC, took first prize and a new course record in 55.41, closely followed by clubmate Luke Scott in 56.23 with Gerry Hogg, of Trull Troggers and winner of the 2008 race, third in 57.03.

In the women’s field the runaway winner was Jenny Moore, of Wells City Harriers, who crossed the line in 1.04.33, taking 18th place overall.

Second spot was taken by Kim Hill, of Quantock Harriers, in 1.09.30 with Vicky Ryan, of Bristol, taking third spot in 1.10.17.

Once again, the male team prize went to a strong Taunton AC team comprising Oliver Berry, Luke Scott, Tom Mellor, and Richard Caburn.

The women’s team prize was a closer affair, but Wells City Harriers took top honours.

The 5k Hurtle Run was won in 19.11 by Taunton AC’s Keith Paul, who out-sprinted Alex Rodgers, of Minehead RC, who finished second in 19.13.

The first lady home was Jennifer Hogbin in 22.50.

Race director Richard Palmer said: “We’re absolutely delighted with the way the race went.

“There was a great mix of abilities from elite right through to fun runners taking part in their first competitive race.

“A big thank you once again to our sponsors and to Hestercombe Gardens for the use of such a spectacular setting.

“Our race marshals also did a brilliant job with many runners commenting on how encouraging they were.”