COMPETITORS in a marathon that started in Leyland were injured by a hit-and-run motorist as they ran.

The police helicopter was used to search the area after the driver of a blue 4x4 hit at least three runners as they made their way along Runshaw Lane in Euxton, near Leyland.

One of them, John Gary Morley, 42, of Litherland, Merseyside, received serious head injuries and was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital, but is now recovering at home.

Terence Robinson, 56, of Blackburn Road, Clayton-le-Moors, was also hit and suffered a bruised shoulder and cuts and grazes.

The 4x4, possibly an Isuzu Trooper, was towing a trailer full of bales of straw, and after approaching the runners from behind, it moved out into the road and hit the runners. After the collision the vehicle headed towards Euxton. The incident, on Sunday, February 23, at 10.25am, happened near the Plough Inn, five miles into the race. More than 450 competitors started the race, now in its 10th year, from Worden Park, Leyland.

Organiser Ron McAndrew said he believed up to nine people were hit by the vehicle, who were helped by Red Cross volunteers.

"This put a dampener on the day," he said. "It's such a terrible thing to happen. I can't believe someone would do this.

"One of our marshals gave a description of the driver and, thankfully, one of the runners was a police officer, so he was able to give more details of the incident.

"We can't even think about next year's race at the moment.

"Apparently the driver came around the corner, beeping his horn and shouting at competitors to get out of his way.

"The police immediately went to all the farms in the area to see if they could find the vehicle, but it could have been someone making a delivery.

"If anyone knows anything they should come forward."

The driver of the car is described as middle-aged and was wearing a flat cap.

Inspector Steve Chapman, of Lancashire Police, said: "All the runners in the race will be contacted in an effort to trace the vehicle"

Witnesses can call Chorley Police on 01257 269021.