THE autumn Farnham and Ash district schools cross country event, held in October, saw the largest number of competitors in the event’s history.

Farnham Park was a rainbow of colour as children set off at an impressive pace, cheered on by parents, friends and family dogs.

Karen Trafford, deputy head of St Polycarp’s School, believes the record turnout can be partly attributed to the growing popularity of the ‘Daily Mile’ scheme - encouraging school children to run or walk a mile every day.

She said: “This year we had a record number of entrants. A total of 556 children (286 boys and 270 girls) represented primary schools from Farnham and the surrounding areas.

“There is no doubt that the Daily Mile is having an impact on children’s performance.”

St Peter’s School won the Bell Cup for overall team performance, followed by Waverley Abbey Junior School in second and South Farnham in third place.

Girls’ and boys’ events were as follows:

• Girls’ individual: 1st St Polycarp’s, 2nd Wyke, 3rd Waverley Abbey.

• Girls’ team: 1st South Farnham, 2nd St Peter’s, 3rd Walsh.

• Boys’ individual: 1st Waverley Abbey, 2nd St Polycarp’s, 3rd South Farnham.

• Boys’ team: 1st St Peter’s, 2nd Waverly Abbey, 3rd South Farnham.

Sarah Marshall, deputy head at St Peter’s, winner of the overall points competition, said: “This was a fantastic result for us. It’s a whole team event. With both our girls’ and boys’ team being placed, our point score put us into first place overall.

“St Polycarp’s should be congratulated for organising such a professional event. It is inclusive in that everyone is placed, but also gives the children a feel for the excitement of healthy competition.”