COLIN Dunn and Matthew Debenham undertook a heavy training schedule to prepare for the 45 mile St Peter’s Way Ultra Marathon, and all the hard work paid off.

The Castle Point Joggers members took on the monumental challenge, which saw the race start at the ancient remains of Ongar Castle and finish at the Chapel of St Peter.

Competitors ran through numerous villages on their way to the finishing line, and the scenic route was steeped in history dating back to 653AD.

Dunn already knew what to expect going into the St Peter’s Way Ultra Marathon having competed in the event last year.

But team mate Debenham was tackling the endurance race for the first time.

The event organiser said: “This is a great race, although it is tough due to the uneven underfoot conditions with the possibility of lots of muddy tracks.

“We think it is one of the muddiest running races in Britain if it rains.”

Dunn completed the gruelling race in 8:03:42.

The Castle Point Joggers member was delighted with his time, which saw him take three hours off the time he registered 12 months ago.

Debenham’s first attempt at the St Peter’s Way Ultra Marathon was impressive, as he finished the difficult course with a time of 10:23:59.

Elsewhere, three Castle Point Joggers members took part in the eagerly-anticipated Roding Valley half marathon.

Richard Bonham was the first member across the finishing line and took 92nd place with a time of 1:35:02.

Bonham said: “The Roding Valley half marathon is in its 34th year and I ran it 20 years ago.

“It is a tough hilly course but a classic road race.”

The husband and wife duo of Roger and Jude Hare finished in 466th and 467th respectively, in a time of 2:20:39.