BOB Atkinson kept up his remarkable record of always being on the winning team in the British and Irish International Masters Cross Country Home Nations.

The Barrow and Furness Striders runner helped England win the Mens 55-59 race at Tollcross Park, Glasgow, on Saturday, by finishing fourth in his category.

Although disappointed not to have come home first in a race he won in both 2013 and 2014, Atkinson was pleased to maintain his record of being in a triumphant England team on all eleven occasions he has competed in the event.

The 58-year-old, who missed last year's GB Masters due to injury, was well in contention for individual honours before being caught on the final lap.

His England team-mate Julian Critchlow won the M55 race in 26 minutes and 20 seconds, ahead of Mick Byrne (Ireland, 26:25) Neil Thin (Scotland, 26:31) and Atkinson (26:48).

"I'm disappointed," said Atkinson. "I mixed with the over-50s and blew up and three over-55s caught me on the final lap. Luckily I held on for fourth and we won the team by one point. Last year England lost the over-55s to Ireland so I was worried as I have never bee on the losing side yet!"

As well as helping England to Masters success, Atkinson has played a part in the Striders' early-season success in the Mid Lancs cross country series, while he demonstrated his all-round athletic ability in September by winning an Ulverston Tri Club triahlon ahead of some pretty stiff opposition.