Wrexham’s Village Bakery Half Marathon: A Milestone Event

The Village Bakery Half Marathon in Wrexham is reaching a significant milestone as it prepares to welcome a record number of participants. Set for Sunday, February 16, the event will see over 1,800 runners take part, with more than half of these entrants hailing from the local area. This increase in local participation not only highlights the race’s popularity but also reflects the impact it has made within the Wrexham community.

The racecourse begins and ends at Wrexham Industrial Estate, with runners crossing the finish line on Oak Road at the former BICC club. Participants can look forward to receiving a medal and exquisite samples from Village Bakery, including a selection of Welsh Cakes, sourdough crumpets, and gluten-free muffins for those with dietary restrictions.

Organizer Mike Harrington from Run Cheshire expressed his excitement for this year’s event, noting that it is “going from strength to strength” as it gears up for its 30th anniversary next year. The half marathon was founded by the late Peter Norman, who, despite only taking up running in his 50s, went on to excel in the sport and devoted his efforts to establishing the race as a prominent event in the region.

The Village Bakery has consistently supported the half marathon, providing a unique connection that draws runners from various backgrounds. Harrington explained, “The backing of the Village Bakery is fantastic because it’s been a constant throughout the event’s history.” This strong local sponsorship, coupled with a fast-paced course, has attracted elite competitors alongside recreational runners.

This year’s event includes a community-focused initiative in partnership with Wrexham Food Bank. Organizers will set up a collection point on race day, encouraging participants and spectators to donate essential items. Recognizing the ongoing issue of food insecurity in Wrexham, the collaboration underscores the commitment to support those in need, especially in light of the city’s recent rise to prominence following the acquisition of the local football club by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

In another community effort, Harrington mentioned that participants from the resettlement program at HMP Berwyn will also be involved, either by running in the event or assisting at drink stations throughout the race. The half marathon is more than just a sporting event; it aims to foster a sense of community in Wrexham and engage various local groups.

This year’s race will also feature several employees from the Village Bakery itself. Among them is Florence Corfield, an experienced runner, and newcomer Katie Roberts, who only started running a year ago. With the bakery’s strong support and encouragement, the organization aims to have even more participants next year in celebration of the half marathon’s landmark anniversary.

According to Village Bakery CEO Robin Jones, the company is proud to be celebrating its 29th year of sponsorship, a partnership that began with Peter Norman’s original vision. “We have never looked back,” Jones noted, as they anticipate the special festivities surrounding the upcoming 30th anniversary. As interest in the Village Bakery Half Marathon continues to grow, it remains a cherished annual tradition for both runners and the Wrexham community alike.