Festive weather was the talk of the day for the annual running of the 10 mile road race, affectionately known as the Turkey Trot.

Hosted by Waveney Valley AC this popular event was a sell-out once again but only 350 runners finished the wintry race - with temperatures barely above freezing it proved to be a challenging event.

The race started at 11am and so did the snow. Conditions soon became slushy underfoot as the runners snaked their way around the quiet country lanes from the Sir John Leman High School, Ringsfield, Beccles.

The weather did not deter 13 hardy Great Yarmouth Road Runners from taking part. With prizes for the best dressed athletes it was good to see four of the team entering into the spirit. Sadly, team did not win any of the fancy dress awards this year but losing to a man dressed as a Christmas tree made them feel a little better.

Unsurprisingly, support on the course was sparse. However it was a welcome sight, just before the four mile point, to see some friendly faces. Thanks to Jim Spong, Roger Andrews and Richard Knibb for their superb marshalling at an otherwise bland-looking junction.

There were no new personal bests set however, for three members of GYRR it was their first 10 mile race. The rapidly-improving Andrew Thomas successfully chased his bronze standard (a club award) while Fiona Williams also managed to reach her copper with the race. More impressively, it was the furthest Fiona had ever run in her life and to do it in those conditions was quite incredible.

Fiona was grateful to experienced runner Carole Spong, who stayed by her side until the finish; great sportsmanship from a highly respected club runner. Gemma Aylen also completed her first ever 10 mile race.

Picking up silverware for the club were experienced runners John Bone and Carole Spong, who were both first home in their age categories.

Full results: James Carass 1-11:22, Penny Studley 1-14:46, Mark Stone 1-17:03, Terry Hubbard 1-17:53, Andrew Thomas 1-18:42 (pb), Vicky Quantrill 1-18:57, Myles Duffield 1-21:53, Jane Thomas 1-32:30, Julie Webster 1-32:30, Gemma Aylen 1-32:31 (pb), John Bone 1-32:34 (first in age group), Fiona Williams 1-44:00 (pb) and Carole Spong 1-44:01 (first in age group).