The annual Lostock 6 race proved to be another huge success last Sunday.

Signs and course marshals were up and active at crisp first light followed by the re-hydration marshals, car park and course marshals with unsung Lostock AC members all doing their bit.

A full field of all abilities made their way to the registration area and enthusiastically joined in with the banging “Mel the Motivator” warm-up session.

The maximum 500 entrants were reached earlier in the month, and on the day there were 441 registered chip finishers.

First male runner home was Jonothan Kay, from Bolton United Harriers, in a gun time of 30mins 34 secs.

Second male runner was Tommy Harrison (32:16), also from Bolton United Harriers, and third male runner was Daniel Bird, of Swinton Running Club, in 32:21.

First female runner was Sophie Wood, from Sale Harriers, who set a new course record of 33:17 - the course record sponsored by Spice Valley Horwich.

Second female runner was Preston Harrier Carla Davies, in 34:50, and third female runner was Josephine Maley Jones, from Astley and Tyldesley Road Runners, in 40:45.

First male team was Bolton United Harriers, with top female team being Burnden Road Runners.

Prize for the largest group online entry also went to Burnden Road Runners.

The winner for most senior finisher category (V75) was Francis Mackin, of Burnden Road Runners, who completed the race in an outstanding 51:15.

Organisers at Lostock AC thanked main sponsor Scan for their continued support together with medal sponsor - Got the Lot www.gotthelot.co.uk - who provided the bespoke smiley finisher medals.

There was also appreciation for Chorley Angels, who provided first aid safety cover for the race, Mad Bull Events, for the chip timing and results service, Scan and Heritage frames for the use of their numerous car parks, Tobutt Sports for assisting with category prizes and Witchey’s for providing hot sandwiches and drinks.

Without all the marshals and support team for volunteering and cheering on every competitor, the Lostock 6 would not be as huge a success and there was also thanks to all the runners who took part.

Lostock AC’s Scott Rotheram said: “The runners’ enthusiasm and commitment make this race so special.

“Their kind post-race messages make it all worthwhile for all of us who volunteer to help ensure they cross the finish line.

“Hopefully, we will see them all on the start line next year - the last Sunday in February - for another ‘six miles of smiles’.”