THE annual Worcestershire Beacon Race over the Malvern Hills attracted its largest ever field of 260 runners boosted by a 30-strong contingent from the Channel Isles.

The race, now in its 49th year and organised by Worcester Athletic Club, started and finished in Malvern's Rose Bank gardens and took competitors on a punishing 10km course over the top of the Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill.

In ideal weather conditions the first home was Chris Beecham of Highgate Harriers, who crossed the line in 43.56. Beecham previously won the event in 1996.

Second was Chris Harvey (Severn AC) who was 39 seconds behind Beecham in 44.35 and third Tim Taylor (Hereford Couriers) in 45.24, who was the first male over 40 home.

Kate Goodhead (Gloucester AC) was the ladies winner for the second year running finishing eighth overall in a time of 47.37.

Goodhead, a Gloucestershire schoolgirl, last month won the World Biathle Championship in Calgari, Sardinia, and is a rising star of the British athletic scene.

Her recent performances and undoubted potential has persuaded Malvern high-tech company CGP Associates Ltd to sponsor her as her career develops.

Company business development manager, Derek Cunningham, said: "Kate's performance on Saturday was outstanding and we are looking forward to seeing her win many more events next year."

Liz Gould (Kidderminster and Stourport AC) was second lady home in 52.33 and first female over 35, while third was Angie Sadler (Cheltenham Harriers) in 52.43.

A special prize for the first of the Guernsey runners to finish went to Colin Ozaane in 50.35.

The race, which was sponsored by Brookhire, Runaround in Malvern Link and Malvern Outdoors, will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year and organisers will be hoping for another bumper entry.

Other winners: male over 50, Eddie Sanders (Amazing Feet) 49.56. Male over 60, Brian Thornett (Stratford AC) 51.57. Local male, John Newey 47.39. First team, Cheltenham Harriers. Female over 35, Maggie Johnson-Myers (U/A) 56.54. Female over 45, Joan Clarke (Stourbridge RC) 57.05. Local female, Fiona Prew (Virtual Road Runners) 57.51.