March presents some people with the opportunity for a spring clean. For members of Radstock’s Somer Athletic Club, it's time for training and entering events. However, they still had time to have a clear out of their own, casting out unloved and worn-out running shoes to help others in need of serviceable footwear.

JogOn is a national campaign that aims to recycle people’s old trainers that still have a few miles in them, providing them to worthy causes and keeping one million pairs out of landfill. JogOn estimates over 30 million pairs of shoes are thrown away annually.

Instigated by Somer coach Matt Exley, the plea for trainers went out to the club. Scouring cupboards and shoe racks, Somer AC has been able to donate over 100 pairs to JogOn.

Matt says "Many runners renew shoes periodically to ensure their feet are supported. As part of Somer’s youth coaching team, I know teenage athletes grow fast. JogOn is a great campaign that can extend the life of running shoes while helping those in need."

Somer AC’s athletes’ passing for running continues unabated. More shoes will be bought and, as such, Somer AC anticipates another donation to JogOn later in 2024, minimising landfill and providing trainers to those that need them.