Gavin Thompson of Crawley finished a brilliant 11th on his debut in the World Cross Country Championships Trials at Nottingham.

Thompson, who won the Sussex senior title at his first attempt last month, settled with the chasing group which included Pat Davoren (Phoenix) and Stephen Rees-Jones (Brighton and Hove) in muddy, windy conditions.

Thompson held off a strong challenge from Davoren in the finishing straight to finish just two seconds and one place ahead. Rees-Jones, who was only a few yards behind Thompson in the county championship, finished 40 yards back in 19th.

Thompson's club mate Kevin Holland was up the front for the first half before slipping to 28th.

Nigel Gates (Brighton and Hove), who missed the Sussex Championships through illness, proved he has recovered as he won the annual Chichester 10km Road Race.

The 46-year-old overcame Mark Twomey (Southampton) and Darrel Smith (Crowborough).

He said: "I was very pleased with my run. I have been struggling to get back to form after being laid low just after Christmas and, although the quality of the opposition was not as high as in recent years, it certainly put me back on the right lines."

Rob Shannon was fifth and Paul Stace sixth to seal the team prize for Brighton and Hove.

Caroline Hoyte (Arena 80) cruised home in the women's race, leading her club to the team title.