INDIVIDUAL performances more than made up for lack of numbers in the Kendal contingent because of illness at the last Mid-Lancs Cross Country at Chorley.

Oozing confidence Under-20 Alasdair Russell was totally in control, not only winning his age category but sitting in with the lead group of senior men.

Although this group became stretched during the middle of the race, Alasdair was able to close on the leaders over the final lap finishing fifth, just nine seconds behind leading senior Jonathon Prowse in 35.58.

It was a great confidence builder for the Nationals, which is his target race of the year.

Another sound performance by Richard Gorst rewarded him with 24th in 38.25 and versatile Mick Walsh ran a solid race to be 56th and 7th vet 50 in 40.59.

Strong team player Pete Acland came 84th in 43.13. Steve Burrowes continues to impress in his first season over country for Kendal and was 114th in 46.34. Paul Percival-Smith completed the line-up with 153rd in 52.26.

The team finished third in Division 2 while the vet 40s were fourth in Division 2.

It's hard to comprehend how Rebecca Robinson packs so much into her busy life.

Once again she thrilled the spectators as she hung on to Chorley Harriers' Vicky Gill, even closing the gap in the final stages to eight seconds between first and second, with one minute in front of guest runner Katie Ingram.

Joanne Taylor ran strongly to be 14th and 4th vet 35, but it's obvious there is more to come as she strives to find that racing edge.

Returning after illness, Sue Russell must have been happy with 51st and 12th vet 45.

Meanwhile, training partners Carolyn Kevan and Heather Goodman were having their own private battle, finally finishing 55th and 56th respectively as the team were fourth in Division 1.

A very young Under-11 Tom Taylor is carrying on the family tradition in his first year and recorded a fine ninth in 7.04. James Mc Quirk ran well to finish 19th with brother Conner in 28th.

Under-13 Luke Ingham continues to up his performance with a 14th position, while Robert McQuirk completed the family hat-trick in 40th.

Other local runners were 1st Under-11 James Knox of Helm Hill in 6.25, and Andrew Hodkinson, 36th senior man, in 39.20.