Ludlow Runners Oliver Perratt won for the second time at Sunday’s (18 September) Brown Clee Burn. He and the first female Sarah Cordingley were more than up to the challenge of the highest hill in Shropshire. 

A record turnout of runners decided to ‘go for the Burn’ and take on the biggest of the Clee Hills with 540m of elevation. The other, Titterstone Clee Hill stands at 533m. 

Blue skies and autumn sunshine was the perfect backdrop to this tough race which donates to a variety of local causes each year. This is an event where the community get involved and sponsor, support, marshal and assist in any way possible to deliver a successful and enjoyable day. 

Over 100 runners set off in an anti-clockwise direction from the Stoke St Milborough village hall near Ludlow and the start of the 11K multi-terrain route. It was onwards and upwards to the top of Brown Clee -where they had a moment to catch their breath and admire the views. 

The uphill was followed by downhill: there were a few lumps and bumps on the way on this stretch that included a section of road, farm track and fields. Then a final stretch of road before a burst across the finish at the village hall.  

It was victory for the second time for Oliver Perratt of Ludlow Runners who finished in 43:39 (more than two minutes faster than his 2021 time of 45:54). There was a gap of nearly three minutes separating him from runner up Matt James who followed in 46:35. Jasper Robinson was third in 47:38. 

A strong run from Sarah Cordingley of Maldwyn Harriers resulted in her becoming the fastest female in 58:58. Holly Rees Lay was the second female in 1:01:40 and Laura Perratt third female in 1:01:59. 

All the results can be viewed via the runABC Midlands Race Listings page. 

Tea or coffee and a hot bap afterwards along with a warm glow of pride in completing the Burn. 

The date for next year’s race is to be confirmed. Keep an eye on the Brown Clee Burn website...

Image courtesy of Brown Clee Burn.