Basildon’s Andy Law went straight from football training to Westley Heights to win the Crown to Crown 5k “Run for a Child” race.

The event was organised by Pitsea Running Club in aid of the Brentwood Catholic Children’s Society charity. Although not feeling great before the race, once he got going and found himself in first place Law went on to record a runaway victory in 18 mins 21 secs over his friend from Thurrock Harriers, Dennis Cross (18:58). Cross lost contact with the leader at halfway but finished strongly, picking up the pace, ending 32 seconds ahead of third-placed Mid Essex Casuals runner, Greg Wisken. Basildon AC boys’ team manager Bill Metcalfe came home in 28:46, 49th of 92 finishers.

Andy, 14, said after his win: “I am running for Essex at Nottingham in the Inter- Counties this Saturday which I’m really excited about.

“ I’m hoping for a top 100 finish and will try and get on TV.”

Top 20 finishers: 1, Andrew Law (18.21); 2, Dennis Cross (18.58); 3, Greg Wisken (19.30); 4, Tony Hyde (19.35); 5, Dave Thomas (19.52); 6, Adam Chapman (20.27); 7, Ross Earney (20.37); 8, Jordan Lacey (20.53); 9, Rachel Sadler (21.04); 10, John Pumfrett (21.05); 11, Paul Wheeldon (21.22); 12, Andy Duffy (21.57); 13, Lewis Protheroe (22.17); 14, Fran Clayton (22.26); 15, Mark Keeble (22.30); 16, Tommy Bourne (22.38); 17, Mick Staines (23.12); 18, Scott Holmes (23.22); 19, Russell Edgings (23.25); 20, Brian Butcher (23.47).