MORE than 400 people took part in this year’s Woodcote 10km.

The 29th annual race, which is organised by Goring, Woodcote and District Lions Club, took place on Sunday.

Runners were chip-timed for the first time but some people had to be turned away as they arrived after the cut-off point.

Members of the Lions had to salt several roads and junctions before the race could begin due to the icy conditions.

The race was won by Nick Jones, who was competing for the first time, in a time of 34 minutes and 37 seconds.

Mr Jones, from Oxford, decided to take part in the race because a friend of his brother who works in Woodcote was running. He said: “I ran a cross-country race last week and this was much nicer and much less muddy.” Last year’s winner, Charlie Pearson, was the runner-up in a time of 34 minutes and 46 seconds.

The first woman home was Samantha Amend, from Marlow Bottom, with a time of 38 minutes and 16 seconds — the fifth consecutive year she has taken the honour.

She said: “I came back to get my trophy but it was very windy and much colder than last year.”

Mrs Amend is currently training for the London marathon and went round the course again twice.

Race director Alan Lovegrove said: “It was a very successful day and the feedback from the competitors was complimentary. The great thing about the chips was that competitors were able to get their times a lot quicker than in previous years.”

About £3,000 was raised which will be distributed among local charities and groups.

The race was started by Goring estate agent Bob Warmingham, the main sponsor of the event.

Other sponsors were Halarose, of Woodcote; JRS Services, of Woodcote; Bouchier Fencing, of Woodcote; Woodborough House Dental Practice, of Pangbourne; Johnson Matthey, of Sonning Common; and the Boathouse Dental Surgery, of Goring.

Members of 1st Goring Heath scouts handed out water at the finish line.

Published 20/01/13