Richard Thomas returned to his old stamping ground to set a new race record to help boost his international ambitions.

For the former Darwen Dasher was back on the hills above the town to win the Tockholes Gala Fell Race in a best ever time of 37 minutes 37 seconds.

It was only the second time he had taken part in the race and is now hoping to make the Wales 'A' team for the forthcoming Snowden International Fell Race.

The Welsh international, now running for Eryri Harriers, is certain to feature in the Snowden event -- but is not sure whether it's the 'A' or 'B' team.

He said: "I've been in the Wales team since 1999 but there is a new team manager in charge so I don't know what his plans are."

But Thomas showed he is in tip-top condition to beat Shaun Livesey's record and followed up with victory in the Bull Hill fell race.

"I've peaked just at the right time," added Thomas, who was working the morning of the Tockholes race. "I didn't really feel in the mood but when I saw I was pulling away I decided to go for it and ended up setting a new record."

Thomas was nearly a minute ahead of Rossendale's Thornton Taylor in second place -- and the first Vet 40 home -- who finished in 38.45.

The annual race was well supported by East Lancs runners with 33 local club runners making up the field of 97 -- 15 wearing the yellow vests of Darwen Dashers.

Jon Cordingley of Bingley Harriers was third in 38.5 with Blackburn Harrier, Paul Guinan fourth in 39.06.

The top five was completed by David Parkington of Preston Harriers in 39.17.

Brian Shaw was the first Darwen Dasher home when he finished eighth in 40.51. Club-mate Andy Smith took 11th spot in 42.24.

Vanessa Peacock was overall ladies winner -- and first Lady Vet50 -- in 24th place in 44.24.

Other local age groups winners were Clayton Harrier Ross Jaques who was first M60 in 53rd place in 49.20 and Susan Corsini of Darwen Dashers, who was first lady in 54th place in 49.25.