Striders of Croydon claimed the first championship of their 20-year history by clinching the Surrey League Cross Country division three title at Oxshott Heath last Saturday.

Walton put out a strong team for their home fixture and pipped Striders for first place but the Sandilands-based club won the overall division with 1223 points, 64 ahead of Wimbledon Windmilers.

Eric Parker has had an excellent season and confirmed his No 1 status by being first Strider home in 12th place in 25.04.

Simon Alexander was next in 18th place ahead of teammates with Gerry Crispie (21st), Tony Sheppard (22nd) and Ciaran Osborn (24th).

Wimbledon got their 10 scorers in before the Croydon club and caused a nervous wait while calculations were made.

However, Neil Furze (29th), John Kirby (30th), club chairman Nigel Davidson (48th), Chris Morton (49th) and Pete Yarlett (52nd) ensured overall victory.