SOUTHEND AC’s Paul Whittaker ran the fifth fastest five mile time in the UK this year when he won the Boxing Day Witham Five.

The 25-year-old ran 52 seconds faster over the file-mile distance than he has ever done before, finishing just outside the sub-24 minute barrier in 24m 1s.

It is evidence that Whittaker’s work with coach Steve Jones is starting to pay off.

A selection of Benfleet RC athletes competed in Witham with Matthew Leeman leading them home in 27m 4s.

Next home for the white and red vests was Peter Watson (30m 5s), followed by Tim Tomlins (31m 59s), Andrew Low (32m 26s) and Neil Casey (32m 26s).

First lady home for Benfleet was Sarah Norton with an outstanding 1m 41s personal best of 39m 42s.

Next for the ladies was Tarnia Thompson-Roe (41m 40s) followed by Jaqui Mcleod (45m 18s).

Other Benfleet results: Adam Chapman (32m 15s), Michael Cerny (35m 17s), Morgan Reddish (40m 24s), Steve Desborough (41m 40s), Bob Chapman (44m 13s).