GREAT Britain international marathon runner Michelle Ross-Cope produced a scintillating performance to win the Schoorl 10km road race in Holland.

The 38-year-old, from Waterhayes, was faced with a top-class field, but led from the start to clinch victory in 33.31.

Miranda Boonstra (33.40) and Inge de Jong (34.03) crossed the line in second and third respectively.

"I am pleased with the result because I didn't ease down for it," said City of Stoke's Ross-Cope.

"I knew I only had a slight lead throughout as I could hear the crowds shouting for the Dutch runner behind, but I just kept pushing on.

"It was not entirely a flat course, which makes the time more satisfying.

"I am currently training twice a day and trying to remain injury free in the build up to the Brighton marathon in April."

TRENTHAM Running Club's Sarah Johnson finished in third place in the final fixture of the Midland Women's Cross-Country League at Birmingham's Cofton Park.

The 19-year-old Leicester University student, from Barlaston, confirmed her potential with this result, which also earned her the individual under-20 junior title.

Johnson has been consistent throughout the season and now looks forward to the National Cross-Country Championships at Alton Towers on Saturday.

Trentham women's team produced another solid performance to defend the veterans' title.

Mandy Vernon also finished in the bronze-medal position as she led Adela Salt and Jayne Dickens to the team title over Telford.