Woodstock Harrier Paul Brackett successfully completed the equivalent of five marathons in five days, for the first time, in the Forces March last week.

The event, organised by Prospect 65 and with the object of raising money for injured servicemen, was open to civilians as well as forces personnel.

Brackett, 51, was one of many long-distance runners taking part.

Of the 250 trying to complete the near 140-mile course, from Ilfracombe, Devon, to Bulford Camp in Wiltshire, there were also many simply walking the route.

His times were 4hrs 28 mins, 3.48, 4.54, 3.50 and 4.13, giving him an average of just over four hours.

He finished sixth in the race, and was the top over 50.

l SEVERAL records were smashed at the Oxford City 5-star and 10-Step competition, which saw more than 400 competitors take part.

Under 13 winner Kierra Barker (Basingstoke) amassed 245 points to set a new record.

It was Alexandra Cross of Radley's misfortune to meet Barker in such form, for her 240 points total would have been enough to win the age group in any previous year.

Oxford's Matthew Gain smashed the under 15 boys' record set in 2006 with 100m and 200m times of 11.8 and 24.3 secs respectively.

HEADINGTON Roadrunner Mark Richards achieved the feat of 50 summits within 24 hours in the Bob Graham Round in the Lake District.