Students from St Martin’s School in Hutton were celebrating after reaching the regional finals of the English School’s Cross-Country Cup.

Romford Recorder: Matt Blacklock at the English School's Cross-Country CupMatt Blacklock at the English School's Cross-Country Cup (Image: Archant)

Competing at Campion School against a strong field of runners from Essex, they saw Matthew Blacklock finish second in the inter boys’ race as Daniel Houchell came home in sixth.

The junior girls’ team of Sophie Wilson, Anelia King, Abigail Swan and Isobel Calabritto ran exceptionally well to progress with Coopers to the next round in Ipswich on November 10.

Head of girls’ PE Lynne Swan said: “I am very proud of all our runners.

“The junior girls’ team stuck together brilliantly, coming in eighth, ninth, 11th and 14th and their team total was 24 points clear of the third-placed team.

Romford Recorder: Dan Houchell at the English School's Cross-Country CupDan Houchell at the English School's Cross-Country Cup (Image: Archant)

“What is very encouraging is that three of our top four runners are in year seven, which bodes extremely well for the future. I am delighted.”