FOUR members of Chorley Harriers have completed what is described as the 'Toughest Challenge in Athletics'.

The Tour of Tameside consists of 6 races in 7 days totalling 53 miles or the equivalent of two marathons.

Jeannette Coleman, Martin Harrington, Mike Ogle and Pete Gillham undertook the challenge for what maybe the last time the Tour will take place. 560 runners took part in the first event. With 480 runners completing the last race.

The tour consists of 11 mile Road Race, 7 mile Road Race, 6 mile Hill Race, half marathon, 6 mile cross-country and a 9 mile Canal Race that finishes at Hyde Town Hall. The atmosphere for the whole week was tremendous with the opportunity to renew old acquaintances. Jeannette Coleman's cumulative time of 6 hours 23 minutes was good enough to secure the second Lady Vet 40 prize. Martin Harrington's time was 7 hours and 5 minutes with Pete Gillham guiding blind runner Mike Ogle round in a time of 7 hours 19 minutes.

Mike Ogle paid tribute to Pete Gillham. He said: "His enthusiasm and determination through out the week was terrific. The highlight must have been the way he got me down the hill during the Fell Race. He doesn't take any prisoners." Mike also asked to thank Andy Lowe for his help on this part of the event."It's been a very hard and tiring week", said Mike. "But with a terrific sense of achievement."