A TRIO of Vale Royal Athletics Club members answered a call to represent their country in the Great Birmingham 10k.

Carolyn Dooley, Sarah Murphy and Liz Renondeau were part of an England masters' team that dominated a match against rivals from the Celtic Nations.

Renondeau was a victor in the over 35s age-group category, stopping the clock in 37:12.

Murphy classified sixth among the over 40s, timing 39:20, while Dooley ranked fifth of the over 45s in action after reaching the finish in 41:24.

More than 170 club athletes, including Northwich Running Club member Tracy Dover, from 150 clubs took part in conditions that weren't conducive to producing fast times.

However that didn't deter them from making the most of the opportunity.

"They're an inspirational bunch," said Charlotte Fisher, England Athletics' road running manager.

"The camaraderie between the two teams was great to see and anybody out there watching couldn't help but be inspired by their achievements."

Chloe Dooley continued an encouraging road campaign when she was the ninth woman overall to reach the finish at the same event.

Her time, 37:53, was fast enough to put her as the leading junior in the field.