Jackie Adams and Lee Prowse enjoying the race

MUDDY paths, constant rain and cold winds were endured by the 75 runners who completed the Braintree Boggle marathon on Sunday.

The 26.2 mile cross-country trail took competitors on a circuit around Braintree, starting at Black Notley and passing through Rayne, Panfield, Bocking, High Garrett, Stisted and Cressing.

The event, organised jointly by Mid-Essex Casuals and Springfield Striders, was won by Allen Smalls of Colchester Harriers Athletics Club in 3hrs 29 mins.

Of the nine runners representing Grange Farm and Dunmow Runners (GFDR), Jane Smith was fastest, finishing in 12th position, along with her husband Andy of Braintree Athletic Club, in 4h 20min.

Jason Wintin (35th) finished in 5h 6min, followed by Ashwin Shah (5h 9min), Jo and Rob Kings (5h 17min) and Jackie Adams, Sue Harrington and Lee Prowse (6h 10min). Gavin Foster had to withdraw after five miles due to injury.

GFDR meets at the Dourdan Pavilion in Great Dunmow on Wednesdays at 7.30pm.