Regional review

Apr 26 2010 The Journal

MORPETH Harrier Peter Newton clipped five seconds off his own course record to win yesterday’s sixth Transped Blyth Valley 10km Road Race.

In ideal conditions Newton, who previously set the figures when winning in 2008, made his bid for victory at the halfway point, with only Alnwick’s marathon specialist Dave Kirkland taking up the challenge.

Newton dropped his rival in the final mile, pulling away to a 30-second victory.

Jon Archer of Low Fell, winner of the inaugural race in 2005, finished third.

Angela Hibbs of Chester-le-Street gained a narrow victory over Wallsend’s Danielle Hodgkinson in a good quality women’s race, finishing 29th in the record field of 430 runners.

New Gateshead recruit Rachael Highfield gained an impressive sprint double in the under 15 age-group at yesterday’s Gateshead Harriers Open Medal Meeting.

In the same age group, Katherine Rogers of Blaydon won the hurdles, high jump and long jump.