Teacher scoops the double with second win at Barningham Hall

Carmine de Grandis (Image: Archant Norfolk 2013)

Mr De Grandis, deputy headteacher at Cromer Academy, was a little slower over the Barningham cross-country course - finishing in 19 mins 34 secs - compared to his 18:29 victory in the morning's Erpingham 5K rural road race.

Barningham Hall fun run. PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2013)

He was among 97 competitors in the main race through the grounds of Barningham Hall, at Matlaske, near Holt. A children's 1.6K race attracted 68 entrants.

Sunday's event, hosted by the Friends of Aldborough Primary School, raised about £1,000 towards more outdoor play equipment for its 140 pupils.

Tony Witmond, one of the organising committee, said beautiful weather coupled with the stunning grounds had contributed to a 'fantastic' day.

The hall, which dates from the 17th century, and its grounds were remodelled by Humphry Repton in the early 19th century.

Competitors in the 5K race began with a warm-up in the formal gardens before the race proper which took them past the lake, into the woods, back through grazing land, finishing with a run through an avenue of oak trees at the front of the hall. The children's race was held up and down the oak avenue.

Meanwhile, Friends' members ran fete stalls and games, and sold refreshments in the stable courtyard.

The privately-owned hall is not usually open to the public but its owners, Thomas and Amelia Courtauld, were great supporters of the school where their children were once pupils, according to Mr Witmond.

Many dog owners took advantage of the chance to stroll the grounds with their pets and some ran the 5K race with their dogs galloping alongside.

Mr Witmond thanked North Norfolk Beach Runners who organised the race.

Winners were: 5K: 1 Carmine de Grandis 19:34; 2 Chris Wade 19:55; 3 Tim Parr 22:08. Women: 1 E. Bushell 25:18; 2 Ellen Similon 25:30; 3 Clare Vassallo 26:09. 1.6K: 1 M Gainher 6:44; 2 J Dykes 6:56; 3 E Shippam 7:05.