LYMM again was the start and finish point for a 40-mile ultra running race taking competitors on a circuit of Warrington.

A dramatic new women’s course record, a maverick troupe of Oompa Loompas and an unseasonal lack of mud, all combined to make the 4th Warrington Way 40 Mile Ultra Race a great success.

The new course record for a woman was set by Susie Chesher who romped home in a remarkable five hours and eight minutes, slicing more than one hour off the women’s record and arriving just 15 minutes after Charlie Sharpe, the overall winner.

Susie, who is based near Glossop, said: ‘This was my first time doing Warrington Way and I was lucky to get in as I entered late and had to go on the waiting list.

“I found the race well organised, with great volunteers and a wonderful atmosphere so, as I enjoyed it so much, I’m hoping to come back next year.’

Meanwhile, out on the course another highlight was a colourful group of Ooompa Loompas from Warrington Triathlon Club who moved around the 40-mile route surprising and motivating runners with a combination of disco music, dancing and energising high fives.

More than 300 runners competed in the race last month either solo, in pairs or in relay teams of four. They were supported at Lymm Village Hall and checkpoints on the route by more than 40 volunteers plus a team from Cheshire Search and Rescue.

A party atmosphere greeted runners in the village hall, where tired and hungry competitors could tuck into homemade chilli and cake while being reunited with their friends and families.

Kieran Walshe, race director said: “This race only started four years ago, but it has acquired a dedicated following of runners from across the north west and further afield.

“It is great to see the event, organised by Lymm Runners, getting so many people into ultra running for the first time.”

The Warrington Way Ultra will take place on Saturday November 9, 2019 and entries will open on May 1.

Keep an eye on the Lymm Runners website for further details