An hour had passed since the starter had shouted “enjoy yourselves and go”. I’m now sat in my car with my heater on full blast, I can barely feel my hands and feet and I dare not contemplate setting off and driving home like this.

Trying to get my wet shoes and socks off was the most difficult task i’ve performed in months. As i’m sat there shivering like a chihuahua, all that is going through my head is “you stupid man, what are you bloody playing at? grow up!”

I then remember that the clocks sprang forward just yesterday to herald the start of British Summer Time. My only thought was that nothing could be further from the truth.

I also remembered that some idiot (me) had made a big push on the Striders website to get people here tonight, a tinge of guilt set in. But then I remembered seeing the smiling Striders faces and the mass congregation of yellow and green at the finishing line. Everyone else had scarpered, it was freezing, but there were loads of Striders there cheering people across the finishing line in what was almost near darkness.

They’ll be back for more I thought…… they’ll be back.

385 lunatics (37 juniors and 348 seniors) braved easily the toughest Trunce conditions i’ve seen in the couple of years i’ve ran it.

Tom Saville continued his dominance of the event winning in a time of 25:25 and Ellie Crownshaw the first lady home in 32:43, but only just over a minute ahead of Hannah Helmore who was 3rd lady home.

The Trunce website appears littered with ‘New Runners’ from last night, so i’ve done my best to piece together a Striders list.  Any problems, please let me know via the contact form.

34 (thirty-four) Striders I’ve counted so far……. An unbelievable turnout, especially on such an inclement evening.