The Habbies team of Derek Hawkins, Callum Hawkins, Callum Matthews, Scott MacAulay, Gavin McArdle and Euan Gillham were in sublime form, with Callum Hawkins securing the gold after a final leg battle with Ross Houston.

The victory, Kilbarchan’s first in the road relay event in their 40-year history, ended any prospect of Central AC bagging their fourth successive win in the senior men’s race. Ronhill Cambuslang took home the bronze medals.

Speaking following the event, Derek Hawkins said: “From what I hear about the history of the club, I think Kilbarchan have only ever won one bronze medal at this event and that was back in 1999.

“I know myself that I have not won any relay either in road or cross except at county level. We have some promising under-20 guys and that’s what has made the difference this time round for Kilbarchan.

“Over the past few years, we’ve only really had Callum at that age to add to the seniors to complete the team we had.

“But this was a strong team and we’re delighted to win it.” Lothian Running Club were also victorious on home soil as they won the senior women’s race, with Sarah Inglis producing a fine performance to finish a ahead of second-placed Fife AC and bronze medallsts Inverness Harriers.

Callum Hawkins added: “It took me quite some time to get beyond Ross and he ran extremely well.

“I don’t really know how far it was in terms of the distance and up on the long road section I was trying to stretch it but he kept pretty close.

“Ross had me worried for a bit at that stage but we are delighted to win it and it was a really good team effort by all six athletes.”