Congratulations to everyone who ran the Bath Half this year, which for many, would have been the culmination of many months of training and hard work raising funds for local charities. After the Beast from the East saw last year’s race cancelled, local runners were keen to get out there and take part on what was a bright, sunny spring morning – despite the cold and blustery wind! The race also draws large crowds of spectators, who came out in full force to cheer everyone along the double lap route.

The Journal caught up with Neil Halford, from Time is Precious, the local charity from Coleford that always has a large and loyal team running to help children and their families who have to spend prolonged periods of time in hospital.

Neil said: “What an amazing day at the Bath Half Marathon! We are extremely proud of all our Team Time is Precious at this year’s event, every single runner – all 140 of them did amazingly well.

“The atmosphere was ecstatic, both in and around our marquee. This was mostly due to our wonderful free new running HUB and our four fabulous qualified coaches, who have worked hard all year training and supporting our runners.

“Special mention must go to the three wonderful children who took part, Harmonie, Devon, who just about made it after only being discharged from hospital the previous evening and Ellie. They were all superstars. We hope to offer more children that have benefitted from Time is Precious this experience over the coming years.

“Joining our amazing team were two of our fabulous Ambassadors: Will Thorp and Ryan Wheeler, as well as news presenter, Andy Howard.

“We would also like to thank everyone who made 2019 Bath Half extra special: The committed volunteers/massagers, who looked after our runners outstandingly, our supporters for making a wonderful array of cakes and sweets, our main sponsors: Laura and Wayne Darby Jones, as well as other local companies that kindly donated various items, including Brightminds, Homework Solutions Ltd, Jones, Tesco etc.

“If anyone would like to join us (or think about it) and our wonderful team for 2020 and running HUB, please email us your interest to: [email protected] everyone is more than welcome. It becomes more than running when you meet amazing people that become your friends.”

SWALLOW, the local charity supporting teenagers and adults with learning disabilities, had a team of fourteen runners who all successfully completed the Bath Half Marathon. Two of the runners, Dan and Clarissa are SWALLOW members and this was a culmination of many weeks of hard work and training.

The team were raising money for SWALLOW’s work supporting local vulnerable people, and they are hoping to raise more than £4,000. Dan said: “I ran in memory of my Dad, who died of skin cancer, so I am dedicating my medal to him.”

If you would like to support Dan and the team, please go to: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/SWALLOW BATHHALF19