THE Hestercombe Humdinger wouldn’t be the same without sweat, tears and pain.

Hundreds of runners tackled the picturesque but gruelling 9.5 mile course around the lanes of the Quantocks on Sunday (February 3).

Luke Scott, of Taunton AC, smashed his own course record from two years ago, clocking 52 minutes and 19 seconds to take the glory in the men’s race.

In the women’s field Quantock Harrier Kim Hill crossed the line first in 1:05.24, while for the third year in a row Running Forever Running Club comprising of Phil Burden, Gerry Hogg, James Watson and James Beach won the male team prize.

The 5k Hurtle Run was won by Jamie Coles from Taunton AC in 16.06.

Race Director Richard Palmer said: “We are absolutely delighted with the way the race has gone this year. There was a great mix of abilities.

“We are hopeful that this year’s race will have raised over £500 for our chosen charity Parkinson’s UK and we aim to make next year’s even better.”