Organisers of Bridgnorth Walk & Marathon hoping to 'build on momentum' gathered so far

The Bridgnorth Lions committee will come up with the finer details surrounding the 2021 Bridgnorth Walk & Marathon when it meets tonight.

Usually raising in excess of £100,000 for various local and national charities every year, it was cancelled in 2020 due to the unfolding circumstances surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic.

But organisers confirmed in April this year the event will take place, subject to Government guidelines, in September.

Committee member Martin Allen said the Lions were looking to "build on the momentum" which had gathered around the event so far.

Mr Allen said: "We're getting a reasonable amount of take-up so far, both from members of the local community that are telling us how much they're looking forward to seeing the event back in the town, as well as from individuals signing up to take part.

"We've also had a good take-up of people wanting to run the marathon as well, which is great as it is a new addition."

Momentum

Usually taking place in May, the Bridgnorth Walk will this year feature a marathon for only the second time – with the gruelling 26-mile route making its debut in 2019.

Mr Allen added: "The Bridgnorth Lions committee is meeting to discuss what steps to take next and we'll have a better idea of exact numbers after that.

"We just need to continue with that push and build on the momentum that has gathered so far."

As well as giving charities a vital boost following a challenging 15 months, event organiser Peter Parker said it would also give struggling businesses some welcome trade.

Taking place on September 12, the main walk will kick off as usual in High Street and involve a 20 or 22-mile hike, taking in the surroundings of the Brown Clee.

A seven-mile junior walk for nine to 14-year-olds will start in Ditton Priors and end with the other participants in High Street.

Finally, the challenging marathon course introduced in 2019 will mirror the walkers’ route to the top of Brown Clee with additional miles added on the way back to the town centre.

The marathon is expected to attract both experienced local runners and those from clubs around the West Midlands and beyond.

For more information visit the walk and marathon website at bridgnorthwalk.org.uk