ORIENTEERING: Octavian Droobers' Lesley Ross helps England to victory

Lesley Ross, finished second in the W50 category adding to the 182 total points scored by the England team comprising male and female runners of all ages from 14 to 60 years.

The annual Interland match between Belgian and French teams saw this emphatic victory on home soil.

The two Belgian teams scored 132 points coming 2nd (FRSO) and 94 points (OV) in 3rd place.

The event was staged at Burnham Beeches and Egypt Wood in the Chilterns alongside the Ace of Herts competition.

Octavian Droobers members participated in this and top scorer from the club was Duncan Birtwistle M21 who came 2nd on the longest course, Black 13km, taking 71.41mins.

Chris McCartney M50 was 10th on the Short Blue 9.4km course in 76.12mins, Hilary Simpson W80 was 1st on the 2.9km course in 75.13mins and Diana Hailey W75 was 6th on the 3k Orange course in a time of 63.28mins.

Octavian Droobers welcomes newcomers of all abilities to try this fun adventure outdoor sport.

Runners and walkers, of all ages 5 - 85 years are invited to have a go at the club’s next event on Saturday, March 14 at Ryton Pools Country Park, Bubbenhall.

A variety of course lengths from 1.5km up to 5km around the park have been planned. Families especially enjoy this as it is often likened to a treasure hunt.

One advantage is that there is no need to pre-book your place, just turn up anytime between 10am and 12noon, instructions will be given and compasses can be borrowed.

In addition every junior has the opportunity of signing up prior to the event to compete for their school in the Octavian Droobers Schools Orienteering Championships, See website for entry details.

For full details see the club’s website www.octavian-droobers.org or call (01926) 632189.