MORE THAN 250 runners took part in the fourth annual Islwyn half-marathon at the weekend.

Around 270 competitors, some from as far afield as Birmingham and Kent, ran the 13.1-mile course, which snaked through the Islwyn Valley.

The course began and finished at Tram Road in Pontllanfraith via Ynysddu, Cwmfelinfach, Wattsville, Cross Keys and Newbridge.

Nick Janvier, who runs for Brackla Harriers, Bridgend, came first with a time of one hour ten minutes and 45 seconds. The highest placed local runner was Jason Brown from Newbridge, who came in ninth with a time of one hour 18 minutes and 40 seconds.

Club secretary Mike Heare said the half-marathon had been the most successful they had organised. He said: "We had 50 more runners than last year and it went really well."

The ladies' section of the Islwyn Running Club are holding their own 5k race in June this year. Any woman interested in running can contact Paula Bell on 01443 822778.