Glorious sunshine and an excellent turnout set the scene for this year’s Alton 10.

A total of 449 runners took part in the ten-mile road race, organised by Alton Runners in partnership with Alton Lions Club.

The event was the ninth fixture in the 2024-25 Hampshire Road Race League season.

Race winner Abdinasir Elmi, of Bournemouth AC, set a new course record, completing the race in 50.10.

The first female finisher was Erin Willmers of Winchester Running Club.

Trophies for top finishers and age-category winners were presented by 2024-25 Alton mayor Annette Eyre.

This year’s race was the first under the direction of Darren Mansfield, who stepped into the role of race director.

He said: “Seven months of planning resulted in one fantastic day.

“There were so many volunteers all striving to make the Alton 10 a day to remember – and they didn’t disappoint.”

Volunteer co-ordinator Jenny French said: “A huge thank you to all the volunteers for their help and support.

“We had around 30 volunteers from Alton Runners covering a variety of roles, from lead bikes and baggage handling to registering runners, handing out medals and water, and tail running.

“All the marshals out on the course were provided by Alton Lions – they all did a brilliant job.”

Alton Runners fielded a team of 40 club members. Scoring for the men’s A team were Dylan Poulton, Sam Larcombe, Steve Drysdale and Christian Cole, while the ladies’ A team featured Rachel Walsh, Samara Kelleher-Jacobs, Maria Roddis and Diane Byrne.

Several Alton Runners earned trophies for their performances. Poulton claimed second place in the male 17-39 category, while Walsh secured second place in the female 17-39 category. Byrne finished third in the female 55-59 group, Anne Miller took third in the female 60-64 category, and Richard Bacon placed third in the male 70-74 division.

By Lydia Andrews