Soggy runners take on the Gaddesby Gallop: with video

CRAZY weather and even crazier people made this year's Gaddesby Gallop a truly memorable event. 

Waterlogged fields and torrential rain would put most people off but for the 105 runners it simply added to the challenge of running the 5.25mile course across the Leicestershire countryside. 

Most of them took the course obstacles, which included a freezing water-filled dew pond less than half way round, completely in their stride. 

Organiser Lance Shaw said: "The race has been going for years. It's a great tradition in Gaddesby and we usually get a good turn out because it's the last race runners can do before Christmas."

The event also raises money for a number of local charities, including Melton Mencap, Gateway and Tuberous Sclerosis.

Runner Clare Mendes (27), a member of the Leicester Roadhogs, said: "This is the first time I have done it, but I really like cross-country running. I think I might have to be carried through the dew pond though if it's really deep."

The race was won in 41 minutes and 21 seconds by Nick Cobley (26), a Leicester Roadhogs runner from North Evington. 

Supported by Everards pub The Cheney Arms, this year marks the seventh Gaddesby Gallop. 

The race first took place in 2002 and, after a short break, restarted last year. 

Organisers now hope that the run will become a permanent event on the Christmas calendar.