Aaron Burgess finished runner-up in the Cricklade Half Marathon, but again had to play second fiddle to Dave Bell.

Burgess (Oxford City) clocked a personal best time of 1hr 13mins 17secs, with Bell (Cirencester) taking victory in 1.10.38 to retain the title..

Bell pipped Burgess to the Oxford Mail Cross Country League title by just one point in March, but was a clearer winner this time.

The Oxford Mail League resumes on Sunday, November 2 at the traditional opening round venue of Ascott-under-Wychwood, near Witney.

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Round two will be on December 7 at a venue to be confirmed, while the other fixtures are Culham (January 4), Cirencester (February 1) and Harwell (March 1).

Meanwhile, the Apex Sports Chiltern Cross Country League begins on Saturday at Cassiobury Park, Watford, with Oxford City and Headington Road Runners set to send the largest teams from Oxfordshire clubs.

Meanwhile, Paul Jegou (White Horse Harriers) finished third in the opening round of the Wessex Cross Country League at Avon Heath.

The consistent vet 40 athlete completed the course in 32mins 37secs.

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