Andy Rayner, of Blackheath and Bromley Harriers, and Maria Heslop, of Paddock Wood AC, were the winners from 500 starters at the 28th Folkestone 10 mile road race on Good Friday morning.

With the mercury nudging 25C there was little likelihood of any course records this year, despite the absence of any significant sea breeze. Rayner (53.50) broke away from Marcos Bujia (54.47) from Comesana Sporting Club in Vigo, Spain and Sam Rigby (56.17) of the hosts, Folkestone Running Club.

The higher age category winners were Kevan James (M50, 60.35) of Ashford and District and Trevor Edgely (M60, 67.13) of Invicta East Kent. Ashford and District were the men’s team winners.

Maria Heslop (W40, 60.52) led the women’s race throughout for a comfortable victory in an excellent 12th overall. Her time was three minutes faster than last year and a new personal best. Danielle Stewart (62.41) of Coventry Godiva and Kent cross country league champion, Deirdre McDermot (63.34) of Tonbridge AC completed the podium.

Claire Gaskill (66.37) of Gravesend Road Runners was next to finish ahead of W45 winner Sharon Hawkins (67.56) of Maidstone Harriers and Joe Moore (W35, 71.04) of Maidstone Harriers. With Penny Holden (72.25) also in good form the women’s team prize went to Maidstone Harriers.