WITHAM Running Club will have lots to celebrate at this weekend’s presentation evening after successfully defending their position in the top-flight of the 53-12 Cross-Country League.

Following the final round at Great Notley Country Park, Witham remained in division A and didn't just hang in there but finished third in the league to cement the position that they had held since the second race of the series.

At the final round, Witham's ladies came third and the men fourth as the club was placed overall third on the day.

RESULTS: Ladies: 9 Vicky Hunt, 11 Hayley Ellen, 24 Wendy Martin, 27 Brigid Wallen, 28 Michelle English, 45 Anita Grainger. Men: 13 Chris Martin, 25 James Farren, 26 Heydon Mizon, 28 Dave Campbell, 32 Scott Darney, 37 Leo Cole, 43 Giles Sowerby, 61 Daniel Beckerleg, 62 Pete Riley, 64 Paul Cole, 65 Stuart Mills, 66 Dave Palmer, 70 David Hunt, 71 Sean Darney, 83 Simon Scott, 90 Marc Underdown, 98 Matt Lucas, 105 Philip Cherry, 122 Paul English, 126 Lee Pembroke, 178 Dave Beckerleg.

Witham Running Club also had six juniors running in the cross-country at Notley and the team came eighth overall in the final standings.

In the final age group standings, Ellie Beckerleg came third in her category.

Joshua Beckerleg finished in 39th place, Rebecca Chandler was 40th, Alex Waring 47th, Georgia Hooker 89th, Kristyna Wood 94th and Ellie Beckerleg 105th.