Hot and sticky Bayer race

Last years winner pipped into second place

This morning's Bayer race saw last year's winner pipped into second place, in warm conditions.

The rain held off , as winner David Morgan, of Serpentine running club, London crossed the line in 34 minutes 14 seconds.

Mr Morgan, whose mother lives in Thatcham said he loved the scenic race, which he had entered for a fifth year:

"Last year I was third and the year before second," said Mr Morgan, aged 31.

Pipped into second place was last year's winner, Gareth Watkins of Newbury Athletic Club in 36.08, who lives in Hermitage.

First woman was Laura Woodley , of Newbury, in 38 minutes 41 seconds, taking part in her first Bayer run in 3 years and with double cause to celebrate:

"Tomorrow is my second wedding anniversary," said Ms Woodley.

The rain held off, despite gathering black clouds, but conditions proved humid for all the runners, especially a six-strong team of fundraising firefighters from Newbury Fire Station, running in their full kit , including masks and breathing apparatus , carrying tanks of air weighing 20kg.

The firefighters crossed the line in one hour 30 minutes, after three cylinder changes and said team spirit pulled them through, to a huge cheer from the crowd as they crossed the finish line.

For more on this story - including extensive photographic coverage - pick up a copy of Thursday's Newbury Weekly News.