The Lilleshall Monumental fun run has lifted community spirit to new heights, smashing through the fundraising target in the inaugural outing.
More than 200 people turned up on the beautiful spring day, last Sunday, raising in excess of £1000 for sports equipment at Lilleshall Primary School.
The 2k fun run saw a host of generations running together while the 10k race was competitively contested with both events culminating in a lung-bursting climb up Lilleshall hill.
Organisers, the Lilleshall Mums on the Run – Wendy Hill, Helen Holdroyd and Jan Locke – were thrilled with the community response.
Helen said: “The attendance on the day was overwhelming and the atmosphere was what you would expect of a friendly close-knit community.
“Monies raised on the day far exceeded £1000 and Lilleshall Primary school can now look forward to replenishing sports equipment for the children.
“And they can continue to enjoy sporting activities and foster further enthusiasm for fitness and health.”
Secretary of Newport Running Club Glenn MacDonald-Jones laid out the 10k course while the town club received a boost by signing up a number of new members throughout the day.
Further local support was shown by Wrekin MP Mark Pritchard who joined the race, despite a knee injury. While Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, Andrew Eade, sounded the horn to get the races underway.
Children’s author Cathy Cooper donated a copy of her novel – The Golden Acorn – to the first boy and girl in the fun run, William Hughes and Maddie Davies.
With the best time on the day Robin Sedman-Smith, from Telford Athletics Club, sealed the first men’s place in the 10k with a time of 39 minutes.
While Lilleshall’s very own Jane Stait was cheered in as the first woman to cross the line with a time of 47 minutes.
Helen added: “The cricket club provided the venue whilst the fantastic stewards guided and encouraged the runners.
“Kim and Martin Kells provided the fabulous promotional material and local farmers, Andrew Craddock and David Williams kindly allowed the run to take in parts of their land.
“Quietness has again fallen over the village, but a buzz and new energy has been left with all those who took part, now looking forward to planning their fitness regime for next year’s event. Don’t miss it.”
By Sam Pinnington
