The new, family-friendly community running event was organised by jogscotland groups from North Lanarkshire Leisure on behalf of the Scottish Association for Mental Health, with all proceeds going to the charity.

Over 200 runners took part in the SAMH 5, which offered them a choice of routes – though many preferred not to choose and instead took on the challenge of completing both. Both the 5k run/walk and the 5-mile run/walk made use of lochside woodland trail path routes within the Park – and both supported SAMH’s ‘five ways to better mental health’ ethos.

Runners had nothing but praise for the ‘cracking’ and ‘smashing’ event – and the ‘very nice bling’. Ladies had a strong showing in the 5k, representing 75% of the finishers as a whole, and six of the top ten.

The 5k was won outright by Kelly Murray (22.43), who edged out first male Greg Longmire (22.48) by five seconds. The third place on the podium (and the prize for second male) went to Gary Campbell (24.39).

Valerie Clegg was fourth overall and second lady (26.34). Sofia Neil (27.26) was third female, finishing just a second ahead of the third-place male, Stefano Filippini (27.27).

The 5 Mile event was won by Brian Beattie, who beat the 142 other finishers – more than half of whom were female – in a time of 31.18. Just under half a minute behind him came Gavin Hinde for second (31.47). Just under half a minute behind him came Jason Merilees for third (32.11)

First female and 16th overall was Elizabeth-Anne McGonigle, well ahead of the other ladies in 38.32. Second was Gillian Murdoch (40.06) and third was Sarah Devlin (40.42).

Image: Cumbernauld 10K (Facebook)