I ran the 10k version of this last December, and did the Summer Extravaganza Half in July this year. Both significantly warmer than today's run, but that didn't make today any less enjoyable. It is December in the UK, we expect it to be cold!

Snow was forecast. Hopped out of bed, peered through the curtains. Nothing. Not even a hint of frost. Arrived in plenty of time and enjoyed chatting to other runners after completing registration.

Headed down to the start. Helpful briefing from Diane, and we were off. Lovely run from Kirkstall out to Rodley, friendly marshalls, friendly runners, and lovely views along and across the canal. Turnaround at Rodley and back towards Leeds. Past the start/finish at just over half way, great support that spurred me on for the final six miles. Into Leeds, then back to Kirkstall for the finish.

One of the things I love about this run is the out and back nature means lots of congratulations and smiles from fellow runners. Today there were 5km, 10km, 21km (inc me), 32km and 42km runners, so you were never alone for too long. That said, it was never congested. They'd got the entry numbers and the start timings just right.

Another excellent event from Team Grim. And the cake at the end..delicious as always.

Diane and Cath (It's Grim Up North Running) organise the best events!