A record number of teams turned out for the latest instalment of the Northern Athletics Cross Country Relay Championships in Sheffield last weekend, with Preston Harriers represented in the senior men’s 4x2 mile contest were by a team made up of multi-sport athlete Ben Akin (who was captain on the day), fell runner Alister Palmer, and road runners Wes Wilkinson and Steve Bone. With a total of 68 teams and over 250 runners registered for the event it was sure to be a competitive one and one that needed a strong start. Which is just what Preston got as team Captain Akin stormed round in 25th place to recorded 64th fastest time by a senior male on the day (11:20). He handed over Palmer who maintained Preston top thirty placing before handing over to Wilkinson who despite having only recently returned from injury held the teams placing before veteran Steve Bone brought the team home in 26th place. It was a great team performance against tough opposition and the squad certain did the club proud to record a top 30 finish.