Richmond's Ranelagh Harriers women's team concluded their Surrey Cross-Country League campaign in fifth place in Division 1, writes STEVE ROWLAND.

The final fixture was held on a deceptively tough course at Lloyd Park in Croydon and the Ranelagh team was a little below strength, with several of the faster runners now concentrating on preparations for the London Marathon and preferring to give the race a miss.

But there were still a dozen blue vests on the start line, with the top five to form the scoring team.

Marlene Pautard took up a place just behind the leaders and stayed there, running a gritty race to finish eighth.

Nicky Gutch and Sonia Rowland battled round close together to finish 23rd and 25th, and the club vice captain and captain, Julie Drummond and Joanne Muirlittle, completed the team in 35th and 41st places.

The team finished sixth, but comfortably retained their overall fifth place.

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