ILFORD Athletic Club ladies team caught the eye in swelteringly hot conditions after taking the team award in Sunday s Southend half marathon. The team, comprising of Bree Nordin (158th, one hour 37 minutes eight seconds), Dianne Crisp (317th, 1:44.43) a

ILFORD Athletic Club ladies' team caught the eye in swelteringly hot conditions after taking the team award in Sunday's Southend half marathon.

The team, comprising of Bree Nordin (158th, one hour 37 minutes eight seconds), Dianne Crisp (317th, 1:44.43) and Nicola Hopkinson (467th, 1:51.29), set off from Shoebury, taking in two loops of the Southend seafront. They were well supported by Pam Jones (597th, 1:55.35).

The men's team also fared well, gaining third place overall. Terry Knightley, a former winner of the event on the old course, continued his return to top form and was first home for the club (7th overall and 1st V40, 1:19.00), supported by Neil Crisp (23rd, 1:23.19) and Kevin Newell (72nd, 1:30.31).

Other good performances on the day came from Malcolm Muir (58th 1:29.15), Steve Parker (103rd, 1:33.47), Matt Maple (116th, 1:34.41), Ian Burdin (118th, 1:34.43), Rohan Alexander (122nd, 1:34.53), Tony Partridge (321st, 1:44.54), Steve Allen (400th, 1.48:44) and Chris Evans (667th, 1:57.43).

Also competing in the fun run was Sophie Partridge, who finished a commendable 53rd out of 249.

Friday evening saw Muir come home an excellent fifth in a top class field in the Springfield Striders five-mile road race.

Muir clocked 26.44, as Springfield Striders Paul Molyneux put his own club's five-mile record to the sword winning in 25.22.

Ilford also fielded of team of three ladies, with Mel Jones leading home in 36.28, while Sally Gillam was pleased with her 40.25 and Carol Muir followed with 46.56.

Gillam was also in action on Sunday in the North Downs Run, but found 30k of hills and heat not to her liking, finishing in a disappointing 3:31.42.

In the same race Keith Ennis put in a fine performance, covering the distance in 2:37.25 for 57th place.

Three Ilford athletes made the trip to Victoria Park, Hackney on Sunday morning for the Barts and London Chest Hostpital 10k.

Gary Floate struggled a bit in the heat, but came home in 40.57 for 40th place, while Jenny Cass clocked 52.35 for 313th. Lydia Hall competed in the 3k event and did well, finishing in 13.55 for fourth in her category and 11th overall.