Nicole Taylor (under-20, Tonbridge) grabbed the opportunity presented by the absence of Bobby and Alex Clay (Invicta) to sweep into the overall lead in the Kent Cross-Country League with her first win of the season, writes Alan Newman.

The talented South of England steeplechase champion had only tree roots and puddles to negotiate at Sparrows Den.

Taylor dominated the race from the opening lap of the playing fields and extended her lead over two laps of woodland paths to 54 seconds at the line.

Mel Frazier (Gravesend) made her Kent League debut with an excellent second place ahead of W35 master Carole Penlington of host club Blackheath and Bromley Harriers. The higher age group winners were W45 Donna Mewis (Beckenham, 11th) and W55 Sue Cooper (Invicta, 57th).

Tonbridge took the team race with under-20 juniors Sian Driscoll (sixth) and Chloe Bird (eighth) supporting the race winner. Penlington led Blackheath to a well appreciated second place ahead of a resurgent Medway and Maidstone, headed by Louise Watson-Knight (ninth). Tonbridge now hold a narrow lead over Invicta, Blackheath and M&M in the main team race.

The six-to-score category produced a win for Blackheath over Tonbridge and Medway and Maidstone. However, Tonbridge still have the overall lead from M&M and Tunbridge Wells Harriers with one race left at Parkwood School, Swanley on February 7.