Ashford AC athlete Louis Small wins English Schools Cross-Country Championships

Louis Small added to his impressive haul of achievements this season by finally winning the English Schools Cross-Country Championships.

Small, of Ashford AC, found himself in a tactical race against favourite Alex Melloy, from Cambridgeshire, at the Hop Farm in Paddock Wood.

He settled in the leading group before making a decisive break away from Melloy in the last 600 metres, holding off his fast-finishing rival for a winning time of 23min27sec.

The win ended a successful cross-country season for Small, having represented England.

His efforts, along with those of twin brother Jack, also helped Kent’s senior boys win team gold at the Hop Farm.

Small said: “I am very pleased as I was third and second in my previous two English Schools races.

“I have had a good season but this is my best win ever.

“To win English Schools for Kent on home ground and for us to win the senior boys team gold as well was awesome.”