A popular race in Ulverston boasted a 'fantastic turnout' after being cancelled last year.

The Xmas Pudding 10k - organised by the Hoad Hill Harriers - was disrupted by heavy snowfall in 2023 which meant runners have been eagerly waiting for its return.

This resulted in over 300 people signing up for the event before the race on Saturday (November 30), with entries also swelling on the day itself.

Tom Smith and Ross Campbell leading the packTom Smith and Ross Campbell leading the pack (Image: Keith Herbert)

The first event, a one-mile fun run, was 'extremely close' over the final stages into the finish.

Only 15 seconds separated the first three boys - Issac Newby (6.59), Leo Jackson and Charlie Groves (both 7.14) - who were all connected, with two being cousins and the third their best friend.

The girls also had a close race with Silvia Parsons (6.52) ahead of Libby Green (7.41) and Gabriel Parsons (7.50).

Read more: Ulverston race sees over 200 people take on 'iconic' route | The Mail

The main event proved to be 'very competitive' with runners from local clubs Walney Wind Cheetahs and Millom Striders chasing host members to the finishing line.

(Left) Cora Nutt in the Fun Run; (Right) U16 champ Euan Wells(Left) Cora Nutt in the Fun Run; (Right) U16 champ Euan Wells (Image: Keith Herbert)

Tom Smith of Kendal AC, Ross Campbell of Levens Valley and Mark Benson of Tri Lakeland broke away from the main pack along the Coast Road with Kate Maltby, a Border Harrier member, hot on their tails and streaking away from the rest of the female field.

Ultimately, only 23 seconds separated the top three, and 30 runners finished under the 40-minute mark. Tom Smith (33.21) held off Ross Campbell (33.31), whilst Kate Maltby (36.25) stamped her authority on the female race to take victory over the 'ever-improving' Marion Wright Rose (40.35).

Read more: Ulverston annual 10k turns Cumbrian town into race track | The Mail

Bobbie Atkinson breaking v65 course recordBobbie Atkinson breaking v65 course record (Image: Keith Herbert)

A course record for male veterans aged over 65 was recorded by Bobbie Atkinson of the Barrow Striders with a time of 36.56.

The inaugural winner of the under-16 prize went to Euan Wells (45.13), with the team prize secured by the Cumberland AC female side and the Hoad Hill Harriers male group.

There was a special presentation to results recorder Steve Ashcroft who has been supporting the Harriers' events for over 25 years.