Record number of runners joined Silchester fun run

Saturday's fun run attracted more entrants than ever, boosting funds for village community events

RUNNERS were put through their paces on Saturday (May 14), having to compete against a record number of entrants for Silchester's annual fun run.

People could choose to run either a two or a five mile race, setting off from The Green outside the Calleva Arms pub at 11am, and passing through the surrounding countryside.

Around 300 people - up to 50 more than last year - took part in the races, including a two mile race for children, parents and fun runners, with trophies for boys and girls under 12 years old.

People could register to run on the day, from 9.30am.

More serious runners opted for a five mile race, with trophies for boys and girls 13 yrs and over, adults and veterans (50 or over).

Ann-Marie Dalton, treasurer of race organisers, Silchester Association, said it proved a very successful day: "Everything ran smoothly and everyone seemed to enjoy it," she said, adding that entrants came from the village and also a radius of about 30 miles of Silchester, including Reading, Thatcham, Newbury and Mortimer.

"It was mainly a family event, with lots of family groups, children and parents, plus a handful of more serious runners," she said.

With final figures still being totted up, the event is expected to have raised a similar amount as last year - about £700 - for the Silchester Association.

The money raised will be put towards various community events in the village, including the annual children's Christmas party, coach trip for the elderly and earlier this year, a bowling party for Silchester children aged eight to 14.

For results of the fun run and more pictures, pick up a copy of this week's Newbury Weekly News on Thursday.