Thatcham gears up for 10k race

Thatcham is lacing up its boots as it looks to host its first 10k race.

The race – which falls in April – will raise money for the town mayor’s chosen charities Sport in Mind and PALS West Berkshire.

It will begin at The Moors Playing Field and the route will incorporate Thatcham’s fishing lakes, the Nature Discovery Centre, Kennet and Avon Canal towpath and a small section back to the finish along Ilkley Way and The Moors.

The initiative was put together by a community-based committee, led by town councillor Ben Schiffer-Harte (Lib Dem, Thatcham North East) following a town council offer to support community groups in organising new events.

“I have always wanted to put on a race in my hometown,” said Mr Schiffer-Harte.

“And I was inspired by the success that Jeff Bird had this year with the Newbury 10K, especially after a break due to Covid.

“Many on the committee have lots of race experience as well as event organisation experience.

“I want to create a legacy that will hopefully increase the exposure of Thatcham and put it on the running map.”

Race finishers will be presented with a T-shirt and a medal.

These medals will be wooden, in a bid to show commitment to sustainability.

The race is supported by Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre, run by Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT).

BBOWT will also be hosting the drinks station close to the centre.

Other sponsors include Mettal UK, Roots Estate Agency, GHE Solar, Bella Luna and Howden Insurance.

There is space for more sponsors and more information can be found at www.thatcham10k.co.uk

The entry fee is £18 but members of either UK Athletics or ARC will be entitled to the £2 discount as part of their membership.

The race will fall on April 7.