A former world record holder was on hand to crown the winner of the Bourton Mile.

Ben Robinson, a three-time race victor, received his winner's prize from former 5,000 metre world record holder and two-time Commonwealth champion, Dave Moorcroft.

Robinson, representing Bristol & West athletic club with a time of four minutes and 21.4 seconds, out-ran his training partner Richard De Camps by just two seconds.

<hr>

Read more: Fund for Winchcombe youth football stars backed by England cricketer

<hr>

Despite whisperings of a potential cash bonus for a course record, both runners maintained a cautious approach to the competition.

Robinson said: "We heard about the cash bonus for a course record while we were on the start line but we were probably a bit too cagey because today was all about winning."

On the special guest, Robinson added: "It was awesome to have Dave Moorcroft here and it was excellent to have someone of his stature.

"It was an honour to receive my winner’s prize from him."

Witney's Matthew Lock came in third place (four minutes and 27.5 seconds) after struggling against the speed of his competitors due to his more extensive experience running longer distances.

He said: "That was proper tough, just as a mile should be.

"We went through the first 400m in 63 seconds, which was a bit quick.

"An extra gear would have been useful."

The women's race was won by Emily Field, a 22-year-old Bristol University student, who finished in four minutes and 52.7 seconds.

Now representing Stratford upon Avon AC, Field, having been a previous Bourton Roadrunners member, was enthusiastic about returning to the site of her junior years.

She said: "I loved it. It was so nice to see everyone again."

On the race itself, she said: "Mile races are hard to find and this course is ideal, fast and flat."

Roadrunners had more to celebrate, as one of their rising stars, Thomas Harvey, claimed the Junior Mile title in five minutes and 19.5 seconds, while Poppy Oliver of Newport Harriers bagged the women’s Junior title.

A total of 179 runners, ranging in ages and skills, completed the mile, including Moorcroft, who ran alongside his wife, Linda.

He said: "We loved the whole experience.

"It was a lovely atmosphere and such a good event to be part of.

"We managed to get ourselves into a good rhythm and I was very happy with my season’s best for the mile."

Race director, Gill Carrick, said: "The Bourton Mile is fast and furious and a wonderful challenge for everyone who takes part, whatever their pace.

"Dave Moorcroft was a very special guest and it was a real thrill for the winners of all the age groups to get their prizes from one of this country’s greatest athletes.’