Wycombe Phoenix Harriers had a host of runners competing in the South of England Cross Country Championships at the iconic Parliament Hill Fields at the weekend.

At the famously testing course, which features a number of hilly sections, Harvey Bell ran a fine race as he finished 12th in the under-13 boys’ race.

He gradually climbed up the placings throughout the race which saw him run in a controlled manner before producing a typically fast finish.

Kristen Stillwell was unable to retain the title she picked up last year as she could only finish 15th in her event despite racing well.

Her 15th placed finish was highly respectable considering the huge field she was competing in, and along with Hatty Bell (81st), Izzie Wijsman (117th), Emily Sanderson (128th), Megan Harris (162nd), Maddy Wood (172nd) and Emma Hickman (195th) she led the team to a 13th placed overall finish.

The under-15 girls’ team did superbly to pick up a 24th overall finish as many members of their team had only just returned from illnesses.

Mia Waterhouse led the team for the first time and was ably supported by Ana Montgomery, Cerys Vico, Amelia Jarvis and Sian Vico.

Tash Taylor and Megan styles were both on good form in the under-17 women’s race as they finished 52nd and 91st respectively, while Emma Delgado came 54th in the under-20 event.

The under-20 men rounded off a decent day for Phoenix, but were unable to continue the success they enjoyed at the County Championships after a number of their key runners suffered injuries.

Despite the setbacks, Brad Lawrence (45th) and Peter Finn (70th) both ran well after steady starts and David Clarke remained competitive throughout to finish 85th.

Harriers’ next fixture is on Saturday, 13 February in the final league meet of the season which could see them clinch promotion.