Children from Years 3 to 8 joined a high-spirited dash across our fields and hills, cheered on by Terrington Hall pupils and families from near and far.

The runners competed in Under 9, Under 11 and Under 13 categories, on courses from 3km to 4km. There were numerous examples of children helping and encouraging each other along, and the cheers from our pupils lining parts of the course added an extra spring to their step.

Smiles from the competitors cut through the chill and windy day – as did their sense of achievement at a course well run. Runners from every school congratulated each other at the finish line and teams posed delightedly after completing their feat.

A special well done to Terrington Hall U9 boys Harry and Hamish, who finished 1^st and 2^nd respectively, and to Lily who came first in the U9 girls’ group. The U9 boys’ team finished 1^st overall, and the U9 and U11 girls’ teams both finished second.

The busiest part of the course was the catering tent, where our team did a splendid job of providing track-side hot chocolates and flapjacks. Many thanks to our staff, who did a marvellous job of organising the course, supervising parking, marshalling the course, providing first aid and TLC, and generally making sure the event ran smoothly.

Non-running pupils also deserve a pat on the back for their vital supporting roles as marshalls and all-round helpers. Their enthusiasm and willingness to pitch in where needed reflected the community spirit we champion.

Special mention, too, to Senior Deputy Head Mr Keens, who has been involved with and then running the event for 15 years. His hard work, eye for detail and comprehensive spreadsheets will be missed after this retirement this summer. Mr Keens’ son William also joined us for the afternoon as the course hare, guiding pupils around the course on all three races.

Many thanks to the schools and parents who travelled to join us for a fantastic community event.