Registration for entry to the 2008 village race began at 1pm and to coin a phrase, business was brisk. Mick Highnett was in overall charge of the event and also provided the winners cups and trophies. Well done Mick and thank you.

Chris Wilder and Paul Smith entered into the spirit of day by turning up in fancy dress emulating the 118 - 118 TV advert for directory enquiries. James Pryer obtained the ultimate race entry number, while a brave Ed James came in what is best described as Fancy Un-dress.

At 1.30 on the dot, Chris Tonge lined up all the competitors and started them on there way around the designated circuit

Marcus Allum captures the action as the runners sprint across the bridge and round past the War Memorial.

(above) The Pounds' family in full flight while street marshall Gordon Swapp, offers James some encouraging refreshment. Vince however was more prepared and took his drink with him. As we can see, Vince was also heavily handicapped for this particular flat race.

A change of photographer again as Chris Wilder hurtles towards me and crosses the line to win both the race and his class. Paul Smith, the other 118 runner, came in second overall.

Hope now releases Dad (Vince) to sprint in before him. Another one of our youngsters also hitched a lift with Mum but stayed aboard until the finish line. I think a suitable caption would be "You got me into this Mum ~ You carry me!!"

Mick Highnett presented the cups and trophies for "The First Under Eleven Resident Home" Emily, and to Chris Wider who received a Trophy for winning overall and a cup for being the first East Garston adult resident home. The latter he keeps for a year, or until the next race.

Mick Highnett has asked me to express his thanks and appreciation to everyone involved with the organization and administration of this year's village Race. He would also like to thank all the competitors for the effort they put into making this the roaring success that it ultimately turned out to be. I also wish to offer my own personal thank you to my good friend Marcus Allum for offering me two dozen or so of his excellent photos for publication within this page.

Photos : Ken Tarbox and Marcus Allum