Barnes Runners took time out from their busy training schedules to hold their first Christmas bash on December 16.

Two dozen or so members gathered in the Red Lion to swap tales of runs fast and slow, personal bests recorded and racing triumphs over a beer (or two) and nibbles.

Some regular runners didn't recognise their fellow members dressed in party gear rather than the traditional uniform of lycra, fluorescent bibs and running tights. The general feeling was that we all scrubbed up quite well.

Barnes Runners' cosmopolitan roots stretch far from south-west London, with members hailing from Australia, New Zealand and even Wales at the bash. Amid the party atmosphere, two members discovered they had attended the same school, 150 miles from SW13.

Funnily enough, turnout at the club's regular Sunday run 36 hours later was a little lower (and slower) than usual.

David Cornock 20.12.05