The battle for supremacy between Tim Taylor and Mike Fawcett, the reigning champion, took another twist during Ludlow's promotion of Round Two of the Herefordshire Cross Country League at High Vinnals.

Tim (Hereford Couriers) had been the winner at Croft Castle but on this occasion lost out to Mike (Wye Valley Runners) by just 27 seconds, with Ludlow's Kevin Nash third a further one minute and 23 seconds back. Dry conditions underfoot made for fast times with a course record of 34.08 for the extremely hilly 5.5 miles.

Other Ludlow positions included Mick Ligema sixth and first vet, Russell Mapp 14, Barry Wilson 16, Mark Wadsworth 23, John Lyden 24, Greg Smith 25, David Yapp 32, Robert Monteith 34, Mark Warren 39, David Blenkham 41, Richard Hornsby 44, Jon Utley 49 and Mike Livingston 51.

The women's race over 2.75 miles was won by Nicola Goodwin (Hereford Triathlon) in 20.30 from Rachel Hatfield and Sandy Urro (Wye Valley). But Sonia George (fifth), Joy Miles (sixth) and Chris Doll (eighth) gave Ludlow the edge on points over Hereford Couriers and Wye Valley and enabled them to win the team prize on the day. Ludlow's B and C teams provided strong support through Anne Thor-pe (11), Gemma Morgan (17), Jo Sharp (21), Wendy Breakwell (25), Lydia Morgan (28) and Sue Evans (29).