Southampton Athletics Club successfully defended their Miles of Miles Relay crown on home turf.

They failed to beat last year’s time of 48 minutes, crossing the line in 52 minutes 44 seconds.

But it was still good enough as they saw off second place Hardley Runners (54.52), third position New Forest Runners (55.16) and 29 other teams from across Hampshire.

The event sees teams of ten athletes complete a mile each and their times combined. It’s an event designed for mainly road running clubs.

“The event was brilliant with many road runners having their first taste of running on a track,” said Southampton AC chairman Richie Pearson “The level of enthusiasm shown was exceptional.

“A total of 31 teams of ten competing for space on the track and the noise of each team’s supporters was quite deafening at times.”

Southampton AC used the event to promote their Back the Track campaign, which aims to raise money to improve facilities at the Southampton Sports Centre.

£500 was also raised for the Alzheimer’s Society.

The victory means Southampton will once again host the event next year.