RUNNERS gathered in Settle Market Place on Father's Day as 155 competitors turned up for the eagerly-anticipated Settle Hills Fell Race.

There was plenty of talent on the start line, including a couple of England hopefuls, who are in contention to run for the national team at the Snowdon International mountain race next month.

Wharfedale's Mark McGoldrick was the big local star on show, but he felt that the race would be a struggle given the competitive field. He finished a respectable 10th in 51 minutes and 44 seconds, less than a minute behind third place.

Clayton-le-Moor’s Chris Holdsworth won the race in a fine time of 48.10, three minutes and five seconds slower than record holder S. Bailey (2000).

Second and third were closely fought by Harry Holmes from Pudsey and Bramley and Tom Addison of Helm Hill, in times of 49.34 and 49.46 respectively.

First lady home was Todmorden's Annie Roberts (59.49) and second lady was Vet 40 runner Louisa Powell-Smith of Ribble Valley.

A special mention must also go to Vet 70 Alan Appleby from Preston Harriers, for his impressive time of one hour, 16 minutes and 38 seconds.

The course was dry, and hard underfoot, but conditions were pleasant enough, with a breeze and some drizzle to start with. The sun came out eventually though, with runners and spectators sat around on the grass at the finish line.

After the race, many competitors strolled into Settle town centre to enjoy a well-deserved pub lunch with their families for Father’s Day.