It proved the highlight on a historic day for the Irish, with the senior men’s team claiming its first medal for 25 years – a superb silver, led by Jack O’Leary in fifth – while 16-year-old Emma Hickey announced her star potential with a bronze medal in the women’s U-20 race.

“It’s unreal,” said Griggs. “I haven’t cried in a long time but there’s been a few tears shed. I can’t describe it. I’ve wanted this for so long and for it to come together, it’s so special.”

Yet to turn 21, Griggs has now amassed an astonishing seven medals at the European Cross Country, but before today he had never previously won an individual gold. “I’ve been dreaming of it for a long time,” he said. “I was a nearly man at these champs, but finally I’m going to be at the top of the podium.”

His performance was

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