大象传媒

The Potters 'Arf marathon is now in it's fifth year - and a record number of people took part in this year's event on the 14th June 2009.

The conditions were hot and sunny - not ideal for running - but that didn't stop last years mens champion Ben Gamble retaining his title.

The Stone Master Marathoner was more than two minutes quicker than his winning time of last year, and was the fourth fastest ever on the course.

He told 大象传媒 Radio Stoke, "Last year was the highlight of my running, ever, and to do it again is amazing. The crowd was fantastic - second to none. It was a really tough race -听 The chap who was second (Mark Powell) -听 we were neck and neck to the last corner, so was a bit of a sprint finish."

Charlotte Penfold, of Bournemouth, won the womens event, just ahead of Jayne Dickens, from Trentham.

Fantastic support

More than 2 thousand runners took part this year, after organisers increased the field by more than 500 athletes than in 2008.

All athletes were clapped and cheered on by an enthusiastic support all around the course, and recieved a commemorative plate and t-shirt as a souvenir for finishing.

Among them was Steve Parker from Stone. He told 大象传媒 Radio Stoke, "It's the first time I've done the half marathon. I did the full Potteries Marathon ten years ago, the atmosphere today was equally as good. Some fantastic support all the way around."