First Steeple Bumpstead races attracts hundreds of runners

More than 370 runners, aged between two and 74, took part in the inaugural Steeple Bumpstead 10k run and 3k Fun Run on Sunday (21).

The event was organised in aid of Steeple Bumpstead Pre-School, and has raised about £4,000.

Village running club, The Steeple Chasers, (Kerry Barnes, Nigel Chapman, Steve Miller, Lucy Sharland and Debbie Hartshorn), plus Vicki Taylor and Laura Seymour, from the Pre-School committee, organised the event.

In all, 378 runners took part in the two races. Bertie Tweed won the fun run in 13 minutes, 40 seconds, with his brother Archie second and Gregor Ashton third.

Haverhill Running Club members Michael Gilbert (38;48) and Martin Lawrence (39;05) came first and second, respectively, in the 10km run, with Peter Thompson (39;11) third.

Anna O’Hare was the first lady home, and eighth overall, in a time of 40;52, with Sarah Whiteman (42;40) second and Fiona Halls (42;49) third.

The Pre-School thanked sponsors Thaxted Stoves, Jet Garage in Haverhill, Haverhill Physiotherapy, Sanofi, Kevin Henry, Tesco, EC Services, Mace, Iceni Water Dalehead Foods and Paul Firman, the volunteers who helped at registration, marshalling and timing and Haverhill Running Club.

It is hoped it will become an annual event.