Bob Ellison, Epsom's master in charge of Cross Country, instructs the runners at the start of the girls' race

Young athletes set the pace in cross country

A large crowd of parents, teachers and supporters converged on the College last week to cheer on children from local schools who took part in the third annual Epsom College Prep Schools' Cross Country.

This popular event, organised by Master in Charge of Cross Country Bob Ellison, saw over 80 Year 7 and 8 boys and girls from 10 prep schools take part in the two mile race around the College campus, with many achieving personal best performances.

Following the competition, runners, their coaches and guests made their way to the Dining Hall for tea followed by the presentation of winners' shields and medals by Headmaster Stephen Borthwick.

In the team competitions, The Hawthorns won the boys' event with Danes Hill taking the girls' team award.

Results for the individual boys' competition placed Harry Spawforth from Danes Hill in first place, Jack Randall from Cranmore in second and Ocean Schwartz from The Hawthorns in third.

In the individual girls' competition, Danes Hill took first and second places, with Sophie Rumble coming in first and Thea Cosham second. Lily Nicholson from Thomas's Battersea took third place.

The Epsom College Prep Schools' Cross Country is a highlight of the prep school sporting calendar and such is its popularity that plans are underway to include a Year 5 and 6 competition at next year's event.