Former Headington Roadrunner Mara Yamauchi says she is delighted with her progress after she continued her preparations for this year’s London Marathon with a fine victory in the Ohme 30km race in Japan.

Yamauchi, who is continuing her recovery from a foot injury, won ths hilly race by just over 100 metres, managing 2 hrs 25mins pace for the distance just short of 19 miles.

She said: “I was really happy with my win.

“This was my first 30km race ever, so I didn’t know quite what to expect, and it was a tough and hilly course.

“There’s still lots of hard work to do before London, but it’s another step in the right direction.”