IAN HOLMES made it 'business as usual' as he reclaimed the Auld Lang Syne fell race title on New Year's Eve.

The Bingley Harriers athlete had won the race on 10 previous occasions and beat English champion Simon Bailey and a host of other internationals, including the man who beat him last year, Andi Jones.

A new course, had been introduced for the 12th running because of the race's popularity and 442 athletes turned out despite driving rain and gale force winds.

Holmes took command after the Stanbury Moor summit and showed unbeatable speed on the return journey over mudy paths and fields. It was his second outing as an Over-40 athlete having won the Vet's prize at the Stoop race.

He also showed he is in top form and is aiming to win the English Fell Running title as a veteran.

Chevin Chase winner Alistair Brownlee won the Under-18s event and was sixth overall and together with Andy Peace in ninth place helped Bingley lift the men's team title.

Twenty two-year-old Natalie White, now running for Bingley, won the ladies race to add to her 'Hot Toddy' victory in Boxing Day. Amy Green (K&C) was second lady with Jo Smith (Calder) in third place.

Ten years after Sarah Rowell won the ladies title she had to settle for sixth place, but was first female veteran.

n Pictures show (top) Ian Holmes leading the field home and (right) Alistair Brownlee 'wears' the course as he returns to win the Under-18 title.