NEW Cross came from behind to win 22-17 away to Exeter Athletic and stay on course for runners-up spot in Devon Two North East.

Crediton Quins were confirmed as divisional champions thanks to a 38-22 derby win over Tiverton, which gave them an unassailable seven-point lead over New Cross at the top.

New Cross won it the hard way at Oil Mill Lane as they went 12-0 behind in the first 10 minutes.

A penalty try, and a Nick Halse try that Lewis Short converted, put New Cross 14-12 up at the break.

A try each in the second half – Ben Barker for New Cross – made the score 19-17. A Short penalty in the last 10 minutes edged it for the Kingsteignton crew.

Tim Marshall, the New Cross team manager, was glowing in his post-match praise.

“It was close to one of the best performances of the season,” said Marshall.

“To fightback from 12-0 down to lead showed a lot of character within the squad.”

SWITCHING lanes now and there were quite a group of Bovey Valley Runners taking part in the Granite Way 10-mile race. This starts at Okehampton Youth Hostel and follows the cycle path along the edge of the moor.

It is quite an undulating and exposed course taking in all the wind and weather of Dartmoor.

The following took part and received a very nice slate medal: Sally Shoolbraid 1:38:01, Sally Amphlett 1:39:33, Claire Harrison 1:46:29, Kathryn Carroll 1:47:01, Rachael Motherwell 1:48:59, Steph Alder 1:50:31, Nicola Huckerby 1:52:06, Jill Bishop 1:57:03, Charlie Rice 1:57:21, Ruth Beck 1:57:40, Donna Osborne 2:00:32, Rebecca Burton 2:15:02.

Also in North Devon, there was the 30th Bideford Half Marathon, a very flat and fast course that follows the River Torridge towards Great Torrington and then returns on the Tarka Trail.

Tim Magor finished in 1:53:15, Tracey Bull 2:14:40, Danielle Fry 2:29:56.