HEBDEN’S Victoria Wilkinson has smashed the women’s record at Litton Birks Loop Fell race.

Sixty five runners set off up the steep climb of Birks Fell followed by a lovely run around Birks Tarn before the fast descent back to Litton. First to the trig point was Arthur Benson (unattached) closely followed by Victoria Wilkinson of Bingley Harriers and hot on her heels was Ted Mason of Wharfedale. Ted shortly afterwards took the lead which he never relinquished and finished in a time of 36:42.

Victoria finished 2nd overall in a time of 38:17; shaving almost six minutes off the record for the almost five-mile course. Arthur finishing 3rd in 39:54. The event raised a £650 for Littondale Community Website Group, Litton parish, Amerdale Hall and UWFRA. Next year’s race will be on Sunday, November 13.