TWELVE members of Orient staff battled the wind and rain to compete in the Southend Classic 10k road race on Sunday.

The O's staff team, who had been in training for the event since pre-season, ran to raise funds for the club's Centre of Excellence, and despite the unfavourable conditions, they managed to record fast times.

Performance Analyst John Doyle was the first O's runner home, clocking a time of 39:06 to finish 72nd out of 1,573 starters.

Press Officer Leo Tyrie was next to cross the line in 41:14 and he was followed by Kit Manager Matthew Lewis, who recorded a time of 43:43.

Dean Smith finished in 46:28, while Martin Ling was next at 47:08.  Physiotherapist Lewis Manning (47:27) was the next O's finisher, while Kevin Nugent covered the course in 48:18.

Centre of Excellence coach Antony Gradley ran 48:47 and Youth Team Physiotherapist Ed Butler finished in 49:14.

Youth Development Manager Ross Embleton was just behind in 49:32. He was joined on the same time by Centre of Excellence coach Danny Fenner.

Massage Conditioner Pete Brady completed the O's contingent and he completed the 10 kilometers in 52:34

The staff were running to raise funds for the club's Centre of Excellence.  If you wish to make a donation, please download a sponsorship form by clicking here and return to Ross Embleton, Leyton Orient FC, Matchroom Stadium, Brisbane Road, Leyton, London, E10 5NF. Cheques should be made payable to Leyton Orient Football Club.