The Lightwater Valley 10K race is set to raise vital funds again for North Stainley Primary School.

The event, on March 5, was first held in 2010 and is organised by the Friends of North Stainley School.

All money raised through entry-fees or donations will be put towards learning equipment and improvement of facilities to support the school and its pupils.

The run typically brings in around three and a half thousand pounds – almost half of the funds raised for the school each year.

The organisers say that the event is suitable for all abilities. It is set on well-marshalled roads with picturesque scenery.

The entry limit is 500 runners, with 348 places remaining.

Runners will have access to on-course refreshments as well as free food and drink at the end of the race. There will be food for visitors to buy at race HQ.

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For the race-marshals and other administrative roles, the Friends of North Stainley School rely on volunteers, whilst food and drink is provided by local supporting companies.

This does not mean the race is not a serious competition. It is registered with UK Athletics and the course is officially measured by the association of UK course measurers.

Describing the route, Mike Greathead, treasurer of the Friends of North Stainley School, said:

“The run starts in the grounds of Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park and heads out along quiet country roads. The bulk of the route consists of 3 peaks – this has been nick-named “The W” by some of our regular participants and provides a great challenge for seasoned runners whilst still being achievable for the less experienced.

“We also have a 3k fun run which we encourage local children to take part in from 7-16 years, it is a great opportunity to encourage younger runners and we award various medals and prizes on the day.”

For further information on the race – including how to enter – see the racebest website or the dedicated Facebook page.

Ripon Runners made up for lost time when the Lightwater Valley 10k returned at the weekend after two years off because of covid.

Ted Leahy completed the testing course in 35 minutes and 43 seconds to win the men’s open race, 19 seconds ahead of Ripon Runners clubmate Jamie Baker.

Jamie was outright second in the race and also won the men’s seniors event in a time of 36.02, almost five and a half minutes ahead of the second-placed senior runner.

Ted Leahy, winner of the men’s race and Emily Abbey, who won the women’s race

Other winners from the club, included Ian Harrison in the male veterans 40 race and Lenny Lennox who was the first male veteran over 60 to cross the finishing line.

The outright winner of the women’s race was Emily Abbey of Swaledale Runners in a time of 44 minutes and.37 seconds.

Morag McDowall and Lucy Philpott capped an outstanding day for Ripon Runners by winning the female veterans 55-years old and female veterans seniors categories respectively.

A total of 136 runners completed the race and many more, including junior runners, took part in the 3k event.

The other winner was North Stainley Primary School, which raised much-needed funds from the entry fees paid by runners.

The annual race, over an undulating multi-terrain route, is organised by the charity Friends of North Stainley School and covers a course that  passes through the Lightwater estate and the surrounding countryside.

Money raised contributes towards the cost of school trips, technology for pupils, music lessons and sporting activities.

North Stainley Primary School opened in 1871 and is still based in its original building, close to the village church of St Mary’s.

All photographs provided by Tyler Parker Photography.

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