BOOMING interest in cross country running – especially among the younger age groups – has forced officials of the Start Fitness North-East Harrier League into a programme rethink.

Last year, at the request of local clubs, the Harrier League introduced a new non-competitive race for under-11s in their six-fixture list, with boys and girls running together at the beginning of each meeting.

But numbers of participating children have rocketed to nearly 200, forcing officials to split the race into two sections, beginning in the next fixture at Aykley Heads, Durham, on November 22.

Harrier League secretary Vicki Thompson said: “Due to increasing numbers in the under-11s race the start has been very congested. Given the health and safety implications it has been decided to split the race into two, holding separate boys and girls races.

“We would also like to stress that these are supposed to be a fun, no pressure introduction to cross country running. Some will never have run cross country before so please help these young runners enjoy the day – come and support them on the course.”

*The Harrier League is exploring the possibility of running a special train service from Newcastle to London for the National Cross Country Championships at Parliament Hill on February 21. Clubs are being asked for their opinions – and possible numbers - involved for a train leaving on the Friday, with an overnight stay, or Saturday morning.