Chris collects another pair of socks in historic race

The prize of a coveted pair of red hose awarded to a runner from the surrounding parishes went again to Chris Huntley, who covered the 4.5km route in 20 minutes 50 seconds.

There was a cash prize – but no socks – for Jonathan Kennedy, of Lanark, the first runner home, in 15 minutes 58 seconds, and for Jo Williams, first lady home in 17 minutes 30 seconds.

The race dates back to 1508, as a condition of a grant of the lands of Carnwath by James IV to John Somerville and may have been started to ensure that his men were kept fit to run and warn of any hostile advance.