Fundraisers lap up feast of running for Hospice
HUNDREDS of runners were treated to a glorious, crisp morning to raise funds in a charity 10k and 2k event.
The East Lancashire Hospice feast of running started and finished in Great Harwood, at Gaskell Motor Bodies.
Entry fees and sponsorship raised money for the hospice, in its 35th anniversary year,
The Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Hyndburn officially started the race. Andy O’Sullivan provided race commentary throughout the morning and Graham Jones, ex MP for Hyndburn, was among supporters.
Nick Gaskell, who organised the event along with Louise Gaskell and Chris Knagg, said there were about 450 competitors across the two events, along with a good turnout of supporters along the route to cheer them on.
He said: “We had the best weather we’ve had and it was in its seventh year. It was really cold to start off with but got quite warm. It was a cracking day. We had 400 runners who ran the 10k and I think about 50 ran the 2k.
“I think it went really well; I’ve not heard anything bad so it’s all positive.”
Nick said there was an impressive turnout from the Sowerby Snails club, who had travelled all the way from Harrogate, along with a contingent from Rammy Running Club, and as ever there were plenty of running vests on show from local clubs including Clayton-le-Moors, Accrington, Blackburn, Darwen and Trawden.
Accrington Road Runner Sarah Ridehalgh triumphed in the women’s event after clocking 41:48, while the men’s event was won by Stephen Corbishley, of Tipton Harriers, in 34:34. The 2k race winner was Clayton-le-Moors Harrier Helana White in the F15 class with a time of 9:26. The first boy home was Trawden AC’s Harry Jordan (M11) with 9:52.
Jennifer Quinn, lead fundraiser at East Lancashire Hospice, said they were “incredibly grateful” to the team at Gaskell Motor Bodies for hosting their 10k race.
She added: “We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our fantastic sponsors and to all of the runners.
“The money raised from the event will allow us to able to continue to provide a special way of caring for people with a life-limiting or terminal illness in Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley. Our amazing army of volunteers deserve a special mention as they all came together to make this event possible. It was fantastic to have over 400 people taking part in this special event! We are so grateful for everyone’s support.”
The 10k loop route started at Gaskell Motors and winds along the old railway to Rishton, round Cutwood Park, then along the canal path back to the start.