Scores of hardy runners and walkers braved chilly temperatures to blast their hangovers during a unique Shropshire event.More than 300 people turned out for the ninth ‘Morning After . . .’ fun run and hike at Church Stretton’s Long Mynd yesterday.
The runners and walkers helped raise £650 for local charities in the process, through sponsorship. The event was launched by fell runner Terry Davies.
He wanted to come up with a radical cure for hangovers brought about by over-indulgence on New Year’s Eve.
Mr Davies, a butcher in the town, was thrilled when the idea caught on and lots of people from across the region took part.
It has proved popular ever since, with people from across the county turning out for the annual five-mile slog for runners and three miles for walkers.
The 306 participants gathered yesterday at the Church Stretton Social Club, in Essex Road, before the start of the event at 11am.
Church Stretton Rotary Club spokesman John Corfield said: “All participants ret-urned safely for soup and a trophy presentation at the Church Stretton Social Club.
“The worse mishaps were damaged prides as a few walkers and runners fell in the mud.”
The presentation of trophies and awards was made by Abigail Hughes from First Responders, one of the charities to receive a donation for equipment following last year’s Morning After event. Yesterday’s run was dogged by freezing temperatures and foggy conditions, with some people deciding not to take part at the last minute.
But despite the weather more people took part this year, with just 250 entering in 2007.
The organisers wish to thank the sponsors and the hardy walkers and runners for their regular support, which raised a total of £650 that will now be divided between the County Air Ambulance and other local charities to be announced at a later date.
Mr Corfield added: “The fun event has now become firmly established as one of the regulars in the fun running/walking calendar so we look forward to repeating the event again next year on January 1, 2009 - so start that new year’s resolution and begin training now!”
For further information contact organiser Phil Harris on (01694) 771674 or 07775 688484.
Share this article:
What are these?