Essex runner Stephen Hepples took on the Accrington 10k and came within 50 seconds of beating the course record which has stood since 1993.
Over the undulating course – which goes through Huncoat, down to the Walton Arms, then up to Clayton-Le-Moors and back to Accrington Cricket Club - he recorded a brilliant time of 31 minutes 57 seconds.
It was perfect autumn conditions and this is the closest attempt by any athlete since the course record was established 17 years ago.
Scott Monk, a local runner attached to Blackburn Harriers, had the distinction of finishing second in a good time of 34mins 38secs.
His team-mate John Chaplin, in the over 50 category, was first vet finishing seventh in the race just ahead of the next local finisher Dominic Howell of Clayton-le-Moors Harriers.
In the Ladies race, the host club Accrington Road Runners were unable to field their strong contingent of talented runners because of course marshalling duties.
Blackburn Harriers continued their high standing with Beck Taylor (under 19 category) claiming the first female finisher prize in a time of 41mins 43secs while Donna Riley of Clayton-le-Moors Harriers was a close second in the Ladies rankings clocking 41mins 51secs.
The popular race once again attracted a high turnout of local runners with the race entries topping the 350 mark for the 6.1 mile course.
Accrington Road Runners wish to express their thanks to Accrington Cricket Club, Accrington Police and Tony Bolton Sports for their vital support given to the race.
Also thanks to the Accrington Academy massage team and to to Race Director David Graham for co-ordinating the event.
