Bright future for Frome half marathon as second year is a runaway success

HUNDREDS of runners took to the streets for the Frome Half Marathon on Sunday 21st July, and after the success of this year, there are ambitious plans to keep making the event bigger and better.

Neither organisers or runners were fazed by the heat, and 610 runners finished the race. Paralympian swimmer Stephanie Millward started the race and presented prizes at the end.

Over £8,000 has been raised for the event’s selected charities – with individual runners raising much more for their chosen causes as well.

James Sherwin, from the Frome Half Marathon organising committee said, “Although it was hot, it was well planned. We had over 20 medical staff on the route and had nothing more than a few sprains and grazes to deal with. Runners found it less tough than we might have imagined – a mix of their preparation and ours.

“610 runners finished the race out of 750 entrants (both were higher than last year), and we had a whole load of under 11s doing the 1k junior race.

“Stephanie Millward, our Paralympian starter, was great and so kind letting kids wear her array of medals and helped with giving out goody bags too. David Heath MP was, as ever, a great supporter and it was important that he was there to represent the people of the town.

“We never stop thinking about how important the event is for everyone concerned –  runners, local businesses and the townsfolk and visitors. We re-planned the route so we could minimise the impact on traffic, and our plans for a rolling road closure managed by car-based senior marshalls at the head and tail of the race worked well to achieve this. We can always improve and will do so.”

This was the second year the event has been run, and organisers believe it has the potential to grow and grow. Next year’s date has been set for Sunday 20th July.

James said, “We think it was bigger and better organised this year.  It gives us confidence that we can learn from any mistakes and grow the race numbers – we’re aiming for double next year. Entries are now open via www.fromehalfmarathon.co.uk

“Runners know it’s a tough course. Frome is a hilly town and, amazingly it seems, that’s why people flock to run here…people like a challenge!”

Funds raised from this year’s event will kick-start a youth athletics project, and a donation is also being made to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.