IT'S a long way to travel from Colchester for a nine-mile cross-country slog on a Sunday morning.

But Torrington Christmas Caper winner Chris Sellens couldn't have looked more at home on the mud and hills of North Devon.

The visitor was first to return among more than 200 athletes to brave the icy conditions at Torrington AAC's popular festive race.

And with his girlfriend Sarah Ivory finishing fourth in the women's event, it was a fine day for the Colchester Harriers couple.

Visiting family in Westward Ho!, they took the chance to sample the Caper atmosphere for the first time.

After establishing an early lead, Sellens had a shivery shock when he needed to break the icy puddles on the back lanes towards Taddiport.

He completed the course, estimated to be nine-and-a-half miles, in 65-12, two minutes clear of Bideford AAC's Mark Jenkin.

Women's winner Jo Meek, of Tavistock AC, was also taking on the testing terrain for the first time.

Meek, who trains with the Blues, proved she is returning to top form ahead of the South West Cross Country Championships on January 10.

Her time of 72-12 was two minutes ahead of South West Road Runner Lucy Commander and enough for seventh overall.

It may not be the flattest race in the South West but it is certainly one of the friendliest. And there was some strong runs throughout the age categories.

Home athletes Jim Jennings and Marilyn Blair both won their sections, while North Devon Road Runner John Kent was sixth overall and top Vet50.

South Molton Struggler Steve Abell claimed fourth overall, finishing second in the Vet40s after a battling with Torbay's Jon Parkinson.

● The next endurance race in North Devon is Alby's Memorial Braunton 10 on January 24. To enter the 10-mile road race, visit the North Devon Road Runners website.