Summer Scamper success

LAST month saw the inaugural Southwell Summer Scamper 10K, raising money for local charity Reach Learning Disability.

The event was the idea of SRC member Carol Hayward, who, with the help of Penny Durance, Pam Dutton, Lauren Birkbeck, Michelle Hall, Helen Dove, Stephen Tomlinson, Nigel Whitmore and Stewart Lenton, brought it to life over the past eight months.

The day began with perfect running weather. Runners and spectators gathered at Southwell Rugby Club, and with Lee Mulraney on the microphone, the atmosphere quickly built. For many, this was their first 10K, while more experienced runners were equally excited to participate.  Just before 9:30, Richard Whitehead offered words of encouragement and counted runners down to the start. The excitement was clear as participants looped around the field before heading up Park Lane towards Brackenhurst campus with Club chairman Ian Haigh on lead bike, and Lorain Fozzard as tail runner to ensure everyone returned safely.

Very soon the children’s fun runs got under way under the capable guidance of Lauren Birkbeck. Children from 3-8yrs enjoyed the experience and were presented with medals at the finish line by Richard Whitehead, Reach members and Southwell Lions.

Runners completed the course to loud cheers from the crowd and were soon proudly wearing their Southwell-themed medals. Leigh Stubbs finished first in 36:36, followed by Ted Ingle in 36:52 and Geoffry Gregory in 36:53. The first female was Carolyn Hay in 39:47, followed by Maisie Ingle 43:49 and Darcie Wasnidge 43:55.

Age category prizes went to Maja Szramowska, Fiona Galick, Gillian Newbould, Angie Cochrane, Manju Tosar, Martyn Fickling, Matthew Daly, Paul Davies, Andy Welshman, and Peter Davis.

The event raised nearly £6,500 for reach including the charity’s own fundraising and Carol Hayward said: “The feedback has been fantastic, with runners praising the scenic course, supportive marshals and the great atmosphere at both the start and finish. This became a wonderful community event, with sponsorship from UPC Group, Kirkland and Lane, Clegg Group and Southwell Lions, alongside fantastic support from NTU Campus and Southwell Rugby Club and we hope to repeat it next year.”