The seven vets on duty all supported well, being led home by Clive Grace who covered the undulating five-mile course in 31 mins 10 secs to finish a commendable tenth overall and first Wakefield team counter.

The race saw the welcome return in Wakefield colours of former topclass road and marathon performer Steve Crosland, who spent the early part of his running career with the Harriers before moving to Birmingham and joining Birchfield where he served well for several years before returning north and rejoining his old outfit Wakefield.

Crosland kept on well to finish second Wakefield counter in 11th spot overall, clocking 31 mins 36 secs with Dave Brailsford again putting in a good effort to maintain the Harriers' challenge for team honours by finishing 15th overall in 31 mins 42 secs.

Fourth counter Richard West dragged himself from his sick bed after suffering an attack of flu and was rewarded for his bravery with a honourable 21st overall in 32 mins 33 secs. Steve Wilkinson finished fifth Wakefield counter in 33 mins 44 sees, taking 26th overall.

Derek Price came home 43rd in 34 mins 32 secs with final counter, 0/65 Vet Stuart Anderson, putting in a superb effort to claim 84th overall, recording 38 mins 32 secs.

Wakefield's efforts earned them first team honours on the day and they lead the league table after the opening race of the 1999 campaign.