RUNNERS ploughed on over five miles of West Dorset countryside for the annual Shave Cross mini-marathon.

This year’s event was the 65th running of the race.

Around 500 people turned up to watch the race and enjoy the hog roast, bar, skittles and other stalls, followed by live music from One Night Stand.

This year’s overall winner was Ben Renshaw from Bradpole in a time of 28 mins 36 secs.

Winning veteran was Neil Plumridge from Chard, winning lady was Amy Greenhalgh from Axminster with Renee Allen from Harrold, Bedfordshire as first veteran lady.

Winning under-16 boy for the second year in a row was Joshua McSevney from Yeovil.

A new trophy for this year awarded to the first under-16 girl was won by Jasmine Wellman from Uplyme. The trophies for oldest competitors to complete the race were awarded to Jill Bearman from Thakenham in West Sussex for the fifth consecutive year and Les Hawkins from Bridport.

Secretary Angela Rabbetts said the race saw a record entry this year.

“A total of 105 runners took part in the race which is the most that have competed in many years,” she said. “The beneficiaries this year are Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and other local charities.”

The weekend began with a car treasure hunt and skittle night and on the Sunday there was a flower and craft show and fun dog show.

The dog show was won this year by Roz Rudd and Branxy, from Broadoak.