This was a reworking of the Saltergate Gallows race, the start being moved to the nice little village of Levisham nearby. This change of venue obviously meant that the race route would be different. The race started near the village pub and headed up a farm track for about 1k before hitting the moors after the ponds. The route preceded to Skelton Tower, with a compulsory touch and then a long moorland run. Crazy highland cattle added a touch of haste to many of us, speeding us towards the descent to Pifelhead Wood.

The railway was crossed via a pedestrian crossing then followed a stiff climb up into the woods, a loop through forest tracks and a muddy woody descent back to the tunnel under the railway. The slippy steps that Dave used to warn about in the old race were climbed with some real heather bashing over towards the top of Saltergate. A short steep climb up brought runners to the start of the old race. The final three miles were over rough moorland track and then a retracing of the outward farm track home to the finish. The tea and cakes were great in the village hall afterwards (50p)

I loved it ... fast , muddy and fun.

NFR were represented by Charlie Stead and myself.

Phil Green

See also Shaun Roberts' report on Elvet Striders site here

results etc. on Esk Valley site here