RECORD numbers turned out for the annual Terminator race at Pewsey Vale and while many were thankful for the dry weather, some were disappointed at the lack of mud!

Just over 1,000 athletes braved the 11-mile multi-terrain course on Sunday morning, with Tim Wallis of Bristol & West AC taking the honours in 72 minutes.

Hot on his heels were Vito Graffagnino (1:13:45) of Badburybest and Tom Fisher (1:15: 07) as 824 people completed the Wiltshire race.

First Swindon runner home was Michael Tune, of Swindon Harriers, who was 15th overall in 1:21:00, and was also the second male veteran to cross the line.

Race secretary Richard Pearce said he was delighted to see record numbers turning out.

"We've always been looking to break the 1,000 mark and it was great that we finally managed to do it, even if the figure was only 1,001," he admitted.

"We had a lot of people register on the day - more than 100. Maybe the nice weather encouraged quite a few to turn out on the day.

"But then again we had quite a few athletes complaining that there wasn't enough mud!

"It was really bad last year, but this time we've had three weeks with no rain, so it was a dry course and we got quick times."

The challenging course, which is mostly off-road, follows footpaths, lanes and bridleways, and entrants come from all across Great Britain to be tested by the hilly terrain.

Pearce revealed: "The hill that comes up from Pewsey towards Everleigh, you almost have to do it three times.

"There's a sting in the tail at the end when they think it's all down hill. It then shoots down into the river, so anyone who takes part is pushed really hard.

"To get round the course comfortably you've got to have a real good level of fitness.

"We've built it up over the past few years and we get people coming from all over the country.

"There was runners from London and Sussex, and even a coach load from Teignmouth.

"There was also a guy from Aberystwyth who set off at 6am, which shows how committed people are to the race."