10k race coming to Church Stretton this year for the first time
For the first time, a 10k race will be held in picturesque Church Stretton, after organisers at a Shrewsbury-based business developed a route and agreed it with the town council.
UK Adventure Challenges has created the bespoke race through the idyllic Church Stretton for all types of runners to explore the south Shropshire market town, nicknamed Little Switzerland.
Peter Metcalfe, from UK Adventure Challenges, said running has become more popular over the last year or so, thanks to gyms being closed and people concentrating on fitness more.
The race will be held on October 24 this year and entry tickets are on sale now – they are selling fast though, as 60 or so were sold in just the first morning.
Peter said: "Church Stretton doesn't have a 10k race but it is the most beautiful town in Shropshire. We hope to hold it this year on October 24. It's for everyone though, first timers to enthusiasts.
"The race will I'm sure attract great long-term runners but also those people who are new to running – there has been a big take up in running due to the pandemic. There will hopefully be a spectrum of people.
"A lot of people have started running over lockdown with gyms shut. So this run will hope to bridge the gap between elite and new runners."
Peter said that they have support from the local town council and hope it will be a successful day as it is the first event of its kind to be held in Church Stretton.
The company also hosts events across the county such as the West Midlands Horror Zombie Escape Race at Hawkstone Park Follies, Wem 10k road race and the Bayston and Lyth Hill 10k.
Peter said: "We sold 60 tickets just on the first morning of opening ticket sales. We spoke to councillors and the mayor, they are really behind it.
"Our business has been closed down for the best part of a year and a half so it has been quite difficult. But there is a bounce back and we have lots of events planned, including a zombie run on July 1 at Hawkestone Park.
"We are also encouraging people to take the train to Church Stretton on the day or share transport as much as possible."
Visit uk-adventure-challenges.co.uk for more information and to buy tickets.
