SOUTHEND AC’s Peter Binns may have retired from his post as PE teacher at Shoeburyness Hitgh School, but he is still very much a force to be reckoned with in the world of athletics.

In the Essex Veterans’ Cross-County Champs at Claybury, Binns was the first local runner home in 11th place in the 50-plus race in 32mins 26secs. And this made him first over-60 vet on the day.

Ian Glover was the only Southend man in the men’s over-40 race and was 64th with 48.50.

The seasiders’ line-up was completed in the women’s race where Mel Ling finished in the top third in a field of 63.

Although 21st, she was the seventh over-45 vet to enter the tunnel.

Full local results in today's Echo.