Hannah, aged 8, and Olivia, aged 10, spent their new year taking part in the annual race through the grounds of Rendcomb College, near Cirencester. Treated to a course that includes river crossings, woodlands and hills, the girls had to immediately conquer a steep 500m elevation. Despite the muddy conditions and undulating course, Olivia placed individual 2nd, Hannah individual 14th, and their running club, Bourton Roadrunners, finishing overall 3rd.

Both girls competed with the U11’s, an exceptionally tough race category, up against top runners from across Gloucestershire, and particularly so for Hannah, who was racing girls up to 3 years her senior.

Race spectator and Kitebrook teacher Mrs Scates said: “The girls performed exceptionally well, with their dedication to regular training clearly paying off. They should be immensely proud of their resilience, perseverance and stamina; as we all are here at Kitebrook.”