Renewed hope for major Market Drayton race and Party in the Park
The organisers behind two major Market Drayton open-air events have their sights set on holding editions this year.
The Government's road map announcement about taking England out of lockdown has prompted optimism in organisers including Tim Beckett, director of the famous Market Drayton 10k, and Mike Smith, who along with the former started up the town's Party in the Park less than three years ago.
Mr Beckett is aiming for October 3 for the race, which sells out rapidly every year and has won accolades in the past.
"After many months of no races, thousands of runners are raring to go and so pleased the event is happening and we didn’t postpone to 2022, like many other races have done.
"We are already working on the goody bag/T-shirt design and aim to make this the best race to date.
"Market Drayton Running Club and the Market Drayton Scouts are already on board but we need more help as over 150 personnel are needed to make this race happen, so anyone wanting to assist should contact me.
"We are also having the fun run to supplement the main race – full details how to enter on our website."
Entries
On the subject of the new date of October 3, Mr Beckett said: "We know this date isn’t ideal for some as it’s the same day as the London Marathon and Chester Half marathon to name a few, but every weekend throughout September and October have at least two major races taking place.
"All those that have already entered the 2020 postponed race, their entries will be automatically carried forward to the new race date. You do not need to take any action.
"For anyone who is unable to take part on the new date, they can defer to 2022 or we can offer a race transfer, full details on our website (marketdrayton10k.co.uk).
"If anyone who hasn't entered requires a place, please email marketdrayton10k@gmail.com.
"As always the race needs volunteers and helpers to put this event on, so if anyone can help please either email marketdrayton10k@gmail.com or contact me on 07808 144348."
Meanwhile Mr Smith said: "I think we would like Party in the Park at the very end of July if that is allowed, we are still awaiting on what the Government say.
"All the team, stallholders and bands are desperate to get back to what we love doing. Having said that, we totally understand that Covid will have the last word.
"We can't plan too far ahead until we get the OK from Government to proceed. Fingers crossed."
The first Market Drayton Party in the Park in 2018 was pulled together in just a few months and featured eight hours of live music, stalls and fairground rides.
