DAVE Bruce and Jo Musk are out to retain their Oxford Mail Cross Country League titles when the action begins at Ascott-under-Wychwood on Sunday (9.55).

Defending men’s champion Bruce (Oxford City) is set to race in the opener, but last season’s ladies winner, Cirencester’s Musk (nee Emery), will miss it as she recovers from injury.

Musk said: “I’m aiming to be back for the December fixture and then know I’ll have to do the remaining four fixtures if I’m going to win.”