Unicorns and nuns on treasure hunt run in Newport
The streets of Newport were filled with unicorns, elves, nuns and the odd beer bottle for a quirky treasure hunt run.
The second annual Newport & District Running Club treasure hunt run went ahead on Wednesday night, with members and friends of the club following cryptic clues to find their way from checkpoint to checkpoint in the town.
The ticketed event saw 83 runners brave the cold, and its popularity could see the run become a regular fixture in the town.
They gathered at the former Budgens store off Newport’s high street before setting off on the four-mile run.
Dozens of enthusiasts got their fancy dress costumes out for the popular event, running the length of Newport’s high street twice and then some under the Christmas lights.
They did enjoy a pint at three pub pit-stops, the Kings Head at the low end of town, the Wheatsheaf Inn in nearby Chetwynd Aston and the Barley in the town centre, before setting off in pursuit of the next clue card.
Costs were subsidised through membership fees and profits from past races.
Success
Helen Reid, of the club, said: “It was brilliant, a lot of fun and a big success.
“We all enjoyed it and I think it’s got to be an ongoing thing now, people look forward to it.”
There were prizes for the best-dressed runners and the best team name, and when the run was done the members gathered at the Taste of Paradise off the high street for a hard-earned curry.
Club member Sarah Higginson led the organisation of the event, and other volunteers gave up their evenings to marshall the clue-hunting runners.
The club’s next event is the Christmas Eve Social, where members are welcome to join a 10k run or a 5k run or walk.
The club will meet at Outwoods at 10am on Monday.
Club member Bernie Holbrook advised: “There will be a mix of terrain so please wear suitable footwear and clothing.
“Please bring some drinks and mince pies, for your own consumption.
“Afterwards we will go to the Wheatsheaf, to carry on the festivities.
“Having done this event for many years, we know this is a great way to keep kids (and grandparents) calm, before Father Christmas arrives.”
