The Lostock 6 celebrated its 43rd staging on Sunday (22 February) with a sell out field and near perfect racing conditions in Bolton. Runners gathered for what proved to be a bright and crisp day, with sunshine and mild temperatures providing an ideal backdrop for competition.

A long standing favourite among local clubs, the six mile route winds along pavements through Lostock and Westhoughton. The climb along Regents Road provided the main challenge before competitors accelerated along Chorley New Road towards the finish on Hall Lane.

The race was officially started by Lostock AC life president John Smith, with 429 runners taking to the streets. First across the line was Matt Crichton of Swinton Running Club in 30:09. Chris Benjamin of Leigh Harriers finished second in 33:02, with Tommy Harrison of Bolton Harriers third in 33:15.

In the women’s race, Laura Hesketh of Clayton le Moors Harriers led the field home in 34:01, narrowly missing the course record. She was followed by Grace McGarvey in 36:18 and Sarah Hudak of Trafford AC in 37:31.

Team honours went to Horwich RMI Harriers in the men’s competition and Burnden Road Runners in the women’s standings.

Finishers received commemorative running socks along with post race refreshments, as organisers confirmed the event will return on 28 February 2027. Attention for Lostock AC now turns to the Leo Pollard Memorial Fell Race, scheduled for 4 June.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Lostock AC website.

Image: Lostock AC Facebook