Roaring on the runners

Former England Rugby legend and British Lion Roger Uttley is the latest volunteer to show his support for Britain’s most beautiful run.

The 64-year-old ex-Gosforth Captain will be on hand at the Kielder Marathon weekend of events, held at the award winning Kielder Water & Forest Park in Northumberland on 5 and 6 October.

Enthusiastic people who want to get involved in the weekend but don’t fancy running, are being urged to join in the fun and come along on one or both days.

Roger, who lives in Falstone, Northumberland will be helping with the main Salomon Kielder Marathon on Sunday October 6 but other events include the Kielder Junior Races and the Kielder 10K and Kielder Run-Bike-Run relay event on Saturday October 5.

He said: “These events don’t just happen, they take a lot of organisation and planning and by their very nature need volunteers in order to assist in the efficient running and safe management of such a large participation event.

“I really admire all the runners taking part in this years event and it’s great to play a small part in helping others to achieve their goals and enjoy some serious physical activity!

“I ride my bike a lot on the marathon route and it is rightly acclaimed to be one of the most picturesque venues in the country.”

A team of 50-60 volunteers from Northumberland College will also be supporting the events.

Joyce Guthrie, Head of Faculty for Health, Care, Foundation Learning and Sport at the College, said: “We volunteered for the first time last year and the students thoroughly enjoyed it and really valued the experience.

“They packed goody bags, handed out water and generally encouraged the runners. They were unfailingly cheerful and positive, even with the 6am start on Sunday!

“This is a major sporting event and it is thrilling to be part of it and to feel that you are making a contribution in beautiful surroundings.”

Help is needed with a variety of roles, from handing out water and goody bags, to making sure the runners are going the right way.

All volunteers will be fully briefed prior to the event and provided with event jackets and packed lunches.

Anyone interested in volunteering and available from 9am – 5pm Saturday October 5 and 7am – 4.30pm Sunday October 6 (all times subject to change), should contact the events team on 01434 689 040 or email info@kieldermarathon.com.

For those who want to run, entries into all events close September Monday 23. To book a place log on to the event website at www.salomonkieldermarathon.com