KENT'S Dame Kelly Holmes was the official starter for the 24th Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon on Sunday with over 1,000 athletes eager to test themselves on the scenic 13-mile route around Bidborough, Penshurst, Fordcombe and Langton Green.

The 2004 Olympic 800m and 1500m champion supported the event as Patron of the Hospice in the Weald, one of the many local charities to have benefited from funds raised by this race over the years.

Will Levett of Bedford and County AC led the field home in 1 hour 11 minutes 14 seconds, the fastest winning time since Allen Graffin’s victory in 2002.

Levett, whose range of ability includes a sub-four 1500m and under 70 minutes for the half marathon, finished two minutes clear of the 2004 and 2006 champion, Julian Rendall of Tonbridge AC.

FULL STORY IN FRIDAY'S KENT MESSENGER