THOUSANDS of Bromley children took part in the largest cross country event of its kind in the UK, with BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year runner-up Dina Asher-Smith, from Orpington, making an appearance.

1600 junior school pupils, aged seven to 11, braved the cold to compete in the Bromley Borough Primary Cross Country Association's biannual race at Crystal Palace Park.

The event, which involves over 40 schools, is now celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Miss Asher-Smith, a World Championships 4 x 100m relay bronze medallist and former cross country champion for Perry Hall Primary, Orpington, was guest of honour along with the Mayor of Bromley, Councillor Ernest Noad.

Co-organiser, Chris Waring said: "The event was a great success. The parents, the teachers and, above all, the children contributed to make it a perfect morning in the sun.

"Dina Asher-Smith's input was very welcome. She spoke warmly and eloquently to the competitors present at the end.

"It's just possible that she may have inspired one or more of them to emulate her sporting success."