COLCHESTER and Tendring Athletics Club's senior team finished a respectable third in their latest Southern League Track and Field meeting.

A number of their athletes had called off for various reasons but those who performed in the division three contest certainly rose to the occasion.

They helped the Black Vests finish third behind winners Watford and runners-up Braintree.

Barnet and District were fourth and Highgate fifth.

There were a number of exciting races during the afternoon, with the men producing an inspired win in the 4x400m relay, clocking three minutes and 48 seconds.

Thomas Palmer won his 800m in fine style, in 2m 3.5s.

Sixteen-year-old Ermeas Afewerki sliced another five seconds off his 1,500m, finishing third in 4m 17.7s.

Ollie Gifford showed excellent team spirit, competing in six events.

Sam Gardiner showed up well in his 400m, managing a time of 55s.

Valuable points were scored in the field events by Adam Vigar, Cleaveland Williams, Bradley Hicks and Arron Bollu.

The CATs ladies had a superb afternoon.

Lauren Woodywiss was in great form, winning her 200m in 27.ls and her 400m in a personal best (PB) 62.8s.

Super vet Margaret Deasy regained her form after recent injury to win her 3,000m in 11m 38.8s.

Daughter Mary-Ann looked strong, finishing a fine third in the 1,500m in 5m 12.1s.

April Castle had a PB in the triple jump in 9m 44, while her sisters, Debbie and Hannah, were impressive in the field events.

The talented Sarah Kelly came first in her high jump with an effort of 1.42m and second in the pole vault in 2.50m.

Sian Gifford excelled in an amazing seven events to score valuable points.

There were heroic performances by Sian Hicks and Emily Donoghue, while in the 2,000m steeplechase Carey Hollick showed up well in the 400m hurdles.

Cerys Vickers performed well in the sprints.

The ladies' team finished on a high note, coming second in 4x400m relay to make it a good afternoon for the Black Vests.