JAMES Brock was crowned the champion of Sedbergh School's annual Wilson Run on the hottest day for the race since 1948.

Temperatures topped 23 degrees on the 10 mile course but Brock found the conditions near to perfect as a late surge saw him over the line in 1.20.27.

Second place went to Hector Thompson in 1.21.03 with Ben Stewart third in 1.21.48.

Many students struggled to finish the race due to the heat, but finishing 21st over, Eilidh Sproul was the first girl to cpmplete the race in 1.38.02.

Race organiser Jim Fisher said: “This was probably the hottest run since 1948, which made for very tough conditions for long distance running.

“This was in great contrast to most of the training that has taken place, in rain, wind and snow. None of them would be accustomed to running in this heat. I think it’s exceptional and it took everyone by surprise.”

Around a dozen runners were tightly bunched as the race passed over Baugh Fell and it meant that more runners than usual were in with a chance of winning one of the six medals.

Pre-race favourite Charlie Mason was pulled out of the race with heat stroke at Danny.

Going into the last two miles on the road, Hector Thompson had a good lead - around 1min 40 - but Brock closed him down and overtook him at Settlebeck Bridge, a very late stage to take the lead and he stormed home to take the victory.

Speaking after the race, Brock, who finished third behind Peter Harrison in 2011, said: “It is fantastic really and an amazing feeling. I didn't think I would do it on a day like this. It is a bit hot but it is a really good race to win.

“I thought the ground being firm would suit most people but the heat slowed us all down.

“It suited me more than the shorter cross-country race and my determination really paid off. The event is massive for the school. It is one of the longest runs going and it is a privilege to be able to win it.”

Sproul, who finished five minutes clear of Alice Kerr said: “I only found out that I could run last week, because I've had shin splints. I'm so happy I managed to win the position of first girl over the finishing line. Next year I'll be training well in advance and will aim to get a much faster time.”

Results: Boys: 1 James Brock 1.20.27, 2 Hector Thompson 1.21.03, 3 Ben Stewart 1.21.48, 4 Casey Dennis 1.22.52, 5 James Holdsworth 1.25.15, 6 Danny Jones 1.26.12. Girls: 1 Eilidh Sproul 1.38.02, 2 Alice Kerr 1.43.24, 3 Emily Wellock 1.49.06.