Headington Roadrunner Pete Haarer is expected to put up a robust defence of his men's title as the Oxford Mail Cross Country League season gets under way at Ascott-under-Wychwood on Sunday.

Haarer, who romped to the title last season with a round to spare, will go into the new campaign as hot favourite to retain his title in the absence of Mathew Ashton, who is unlikely to feature as he is away at university.

However, he is likely to have a new challenger from Witney Roadrunners, with the emergence of John Atyeo as a real force in Oxfordshire athletics.

Abingdon Ambler Phil Egerton is also tipped to feature prominently this season, but Haarer's Headington teammate, Kevin Murphy, is not expected to run in enough races to qualify for a challenge at the title.

In the ladies' category, it's hard to bet against Cirencester's Wendy Jones, who last year completely dominated, winning every race in which she entered.

There are two new teams in the league this season, St Edward's School, Oxford and Highworth Running Club.

They replace the now defunct Exel Gosford and Oxford University AC.

Oxford City's men's team should secure an immediate promotion back into Division 1 following last season's relegation, although Hook Norton, led by the experienced Tom Bradford, will give them a real run for their money for the solitary promotion spot.

Banbury Harriers, who returned to the top flight after relegation in 2002-3, will hope for consolidation.

At the top, it looks like shaping up to be another great tussle between the county's 'big two', Woodstock Harriers and Headington Roadrunners.

In the ladies' team category, watch out for Alchester, who could surprise a few with the likes of the talented Jenny Pyper among their numbers.

Headington Roadrunners will once again be among the favourites for the title, but Cirencester, with Jones in their ranks, will prove a tough nut to crack.

The first round will once again be hosted by Witney Roadrunners around the Hunters and Chasers Course, starting at 10am.

The conditions are expected to be extremely boggy after the wet summer and autumn.