Tom Adams blazed a trail over a frosty Temple Newsam course to contribute maximum points for Ilkley Harriers in the third PECO Cross-Country League fixture.

Adams was denied an overall race win by high-calibre guest runner Alasdair Russell (Kendall AC), who had posted 8min 48sec over 3,000 metres last year.

And despite Adams’ efforts he could not lift Ilkley higher than fifth in Division One in Sunday’s race as support came from Jamie Hutchinson (29th) and Stephen Coy (44th).

In the Premier Division, Bradford Airedale – last in the opening two races of the season – managed a much-improved sixth place, with Matt Nowell (11th) and Martin Firth (35th) leading the way.

Saltaire Striders consolidated their mid-table position in fifth place, largely thanks to Will Kerr in eighth, as the trio of Jack Verity, John Dawson and Alex Lloyd packed well between 40th and 47th.

Another guest runner took the honours in the ladies race as Lois Rosindale, representing Leeds Met, won ahead of Heather Sellars (Abbey).

Emma Inglis was first back for Saltaire, who are just one point behind Airecentre Pacers in Division One and third overall.

Wharfedale Harriers, who generally prefer more rugged fells terrain, prop up the table despite strong performances from Tamara Hemsley and Katherine Kirkham in 17th and 18th.

In the race for individual honours, Saltaire runner Mick Chambers leads the cumulative over-55s age category, while Charles Lines – of Bradford Grammar School and racing in Ackworth colours – has the edge in the over-50s.

Lynne Morris (Airecentre Pacers) is first in the female over-60s category.

Local clubs tasted individual success in the junior races as Euan Brennan (Ilkley) and Shona Hastings (Wharfedale) were first back in the eight-tens event, while Emile Cairess (Bingley) and Lucy Williamson (Ilkley) won the 11-16 races.