Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2020 cancelled

Entries for Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2020 are open
Entries to Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2020 are open

UPDATE, MARCH 2020: Sorry! The ongoing coronavirus crisis means we have had to cancel Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2020. We are so disappointed, but are sure you will agree it is the right thing to do. Entrance fees are being refunded into runners’ bank accounts automatically. We’ll be back next year. Until then, stay fit and well!


Registration for the Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2020 is open now!

The run, one of the most challenging and exhilarating in the Midlands, is returning for the fourth time.

This year’s it again starts and finishes at picturesque Bredon Cricket Club, Westmancote, Worcestershire, at 11am on Sunday, May 24, 2020.

The marshalled 10k route follows pretty country lanes, tracks and paths to the 299m summit of Bredon Hill.

The hilltop is marked by an Iron Age fort and the 18th-century Parson’s Folly tower, and it boasts glorious views of the surrounding countryside.

Entry costs £15 and includes a pre-race warm-up.

After the run, participants and their families and friends can enjoy some live music and a barbecue at the cricket club, where the fully licensed bar will be open. There were be a cricket match involving local sides to enjoy in the afternoon.

The tower run run is open to just 200 and is expected to be oversubscribed.

New this year is a 1500m (approximately) junior run for all ages under 17, starting and finishing at the cricket club. The route is on cricket and rugby pitches, safely away from any roads, and will be fully supervised. Entry is free and all participants receive a medal. The junior run begins at 10am.

Money raised from the tower run will be shared between the cricket club and the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.

Places will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.

Runners must be aged over 16.

All entrants receive a finisher’s medal, and there will be trophies for first male finisher, first female finisher and first member of Bredon Cricket Club to finish.

Cricket club chairman Neil Hall said: “We can’t wait welcome runners to our beautiful course in 2020.

“We hope the addition of the junior fun run will make it even more popular with families.”

You can view the route of the run and export it to your device from Strava here.

Click on the link below to register and pay securely via EntryCentral, the secure sports event ticketing specialist.

Bredon Hill Tower Run 2020:
Frequently asked questions

What is it?

A 10k trail run starting and finishing at Bredon Cricket Club and following pretty country lanes, tracks and paths to the 299m summit of Bredon Hill.

When is it?

Sunday, May 24, 2020.

How much does it cost to enter?

£15 (entry includes booking fee and finisher’s medal).

How do I enter?

Follow this link to register and pay securely online at EntryCentral. This is the only method of payment. You will be emailed a receipt and should bring this with you as proof of entry.

Can I pay on behalf of more than one person?

Yes. Just complete the entry form for each runner. When all your registrations are complete you can move through to the checkout and pay for them on one card.

How many runners will there be?

Open to a maximum of 200.

Where is it?

Bredon Cricket Club, Hill Close, Westmancote, near Tewkesbury GL20 7EU.

What time does it start?

The run starts and finishes at Bredon Cricket Club. The first runners set off at 11am, but entrants must arrive at the cricket ground before 10.30am to collect their race number and warm-up.

Does everyone start at the same time?

You will be given a chance when you register online to grade yourself as an expert, intermediate or beginner/fun runner. The expert runners start at the front of the field, the beginners/fun runners at the rear.

What are the age limits?

Entrants must be over 16.

Is it timed?

No. Runners are responsible for monitoring their own time, if they wish. You can import the route onto your device from Strava here.

Where do I park?

Parking at or near the cricket ground will be signposted on the day.

Can I get a refund if I withdraw from the run before it starts?

Sorry, there are no refunds. But your place can be reserved for next year.

What happens if I do not turn up for the race?

Your place will remain unfilled, but you will not be given a refund. Neither will you receive your finisher’s medal. You are not required to inform us in advance.

Is there a place where I can safely store my stuff during the run?

You may leave your gear in our unsecured clubhouse at your own risk, or lock it in your car.

When do I get my race number? How do I fasten it?

Report to the chief marshal when you arrive at the cricket ground. You will be given your race number. We will supply safety pins to attach it to your shirt/vest.

I want to watch the race as a spectator. Where is the best place to go?

The route follows rights of way, but paths are narrow in places so choose where you watch with consideration. The  best spot is the summit of Bredon Hill, where there is plenty of space. Please follow the Countryside Code on Bredon Hill.

Are there any toilet facilities?

There are toilet facilities in the cricket club pavilion, and there will be a portable toilet.

Is the route clearly marked?

Parts will be signposted, and there will be lots of marshals. You will not need a map or navigation aid.

Can disabled people take part in, or watch the race?

Sorry, we are unable to offer facilities for disabled people. Anyone taking part or watching does so at their own risk.

How difficult will it be?

It is a challenging run, with steep gradients on both the uphill and downhill stretches. The terrain encompasses metalled lanes, stony tracks, and paths through fields and woods that may be muddy. But this is a fun event, and you should enjoy it. Go at your own pace… even if that means walking.

Do I need special trail shoes?

Trail shoes may be beneficial, especially in wet weather, but ordinary running shoes will be adequate.

What happens if there is bad weather on the day of the run?

It will only be called off in the event of extreme weather. We will post a notice on the club Facebook page on the morning of the run ONLY if it is cancelled.

Will water be supplied along the route?

No. Runners are responsible for their own hydration. Bottled water and soft drinks will be on sale in our licensed clubhouse bar before, during and after the run. Please do not drop empty drinks bottles along the route, which is through an area of outstanding natural beauty.

What happens after the run?

Finishers will be handed their medals as soon as they arrive back at the cricket ground. Later, trophies will be presented for the first male finisher, first female finisher, and first finisher who is a member of Bredon Cricket Club. We hope runners, friends and family will remain at the cricket ground to enjoy our hospitality. There will be live music and a barbecue. A cricket match involving local sides will be played in the afternoon. Our licensed bar will be open throughout.

What happens if all the places are gone when I try to register?

Please do not be too disappointed. Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run is an annual event. You will be given the option to join the waiting list for next year’s run, and will be alerted by email when entries for the 2021 run go on sale.

Can I be told the route in advance, and have a chance to run it?

The route uses public roads and footpaths, so anyone is free to run it in advance at their own risk. The route can be viewed and exported from Strava here.

Can I swap my place with someone?

No. This is not allowed for safety reasons.

Can I wear headphones?

Yes, but please be aware of other runners.

Can I run with my dog?

No. Runners are not allowed to take dogs on the route for safety reasons.

Can I seek sponsorship and take part in aid of a charity?

Bredon Cricket Club is donating a share of proceeds from the run to the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, but you are free to seek sponsorship for a charity of your choice.

Are there any medical facilities?

Trained medics will be at the cricket ground.

Club turns out to support James Hopkins Trust

Bredon Cricket Club made a huge effort to support the James Hopkins Trust yesterday (Friday, July 26).

A golf day at Naunton Downs, near Cheltenham, was followed by a
a well-supported family fun night with live music from local band Kings of the Hill at Hill Close.

There was also a big raffle that included prizes such as a family passes to Mr Mulligan’s, Cheltenham, and 10-pin bowling at Gloucester.

Enjoying the Kings of the Hill perform at the James Hopkins Trust charity day at Bredon Cricket Club
Enjoying the Kings of the Hill perform at the James Hopkins Trust charity day at Bredon Cricket Club

Overall, the event raised a magnificent £3,500 for the James Hopkins Trust, a cause close to the heart of the Matty family, whom many club members will know.

Established in 1989, the trust provides care for babies and children up to the age of five who have a life-limiting or life-threatening condition while supporting their families.

Live music at Bredon family fun evening

The Kings of the Hill will perform at Bredon Cricket Club with a share of the money raised going to the James Hopkins Trust
The Kings of the Hill will perform at Bredon Cricket Club with a share of the money raised going to the James Hopkins Trust. Picture courtesy Kings of the Hill

There’s another family fun night lined up at Bredon Cricket Club this weekend, with a share of money raised going to the James Hopkins Trust.

On Friday evening (July 26) we are hosting a barbecue, big raffle and live music at our Hill Close clubhouse.

The event coincides with our golf day, and as well as raising funds for the club will also contribute to the James Hopkins Trust, a charity that has been a great support to the Matty family, whom many club members will know well.

The evening starts at 6pm, and the entertainment is being provided by popular local covers band the Kings of the Hill. Children are welcome.

If you are not available to attend on Friday, but would still like to contribute by buying raffle tickets (£5 for five strips) please contact Glenn Buckley.

Raffle prizes include:

  • Family pass to Mr Mulligan’s, Cheltenham
  • £40 Cineworld voucher Venture Photography x3
  • Family pass to 10-pin, Gloucester
  • £15 off golf lesson
  • Signed Bristol RFC shirt
  • Family pass to Cotswold Falconry Centre, Batsford
  • Family pass to Cotswold Farm Park
  • Ice skating for two at Icequest, Malvern
  • Bottle of port
  • Candle
  • Golf balls

Sign up for our charity golf day

Bredon Cricket Club charity golf day is at Naunton Downs Golf Club, near Cheltenham, on Friday, July 26.

Entry is £30 a head for teams of three.

The price includes a coffee and bacon roll on arrival, 18 holes of golf, and food and prizes back at the cricket club.

This year we are raising funds for the James Hopkins Trust, a very worthy charity, so please do your best to support the event by playing or sponsoring one of the holes at £100.

Please confirm by Saturday, June 1, to Neil Hall, chairman.

Six reasons to enter Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run

June: Heading for the top: Runners tackling the Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2017
Heading for the top: Runners tackling the Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2017

Here are six reasons to enter the Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2019.

1 It’s a challenge

The 10km route is not for the faint-hearted. It entails reaching the 291m summit of Bredon Hill. But from there it’s downhill all the way to the finish line! Here’s a video of what you can expect to see.

2 Everyone is so friendly

The run is fast gaining a reputation for being friendly and welcoming. Runners encourage each other along the route, and our helpful team of marshals are always on hand to make sure everyone is ok.

The views on Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run are magnificent. Picture: Martin Humby

3 The views are magnificent

Bredon Hill boasts stunning views over the Vale of Evesham, and across to the Malvern Hills and the Cotswolds. Running amidst such beauty is a truly uplifting experience.

4 You will be helping a good cause

Proceeds from the run help maintain cricket, one of England’s best loved sports, in Bredon. We are a family club and our players range from five-year-olds to pensioners. Takings from the run are also shared with the Midlands Air Ambulance.

5 It will do you good

Running makes you happier, according to research. It also helps you lose or maintain weight, strengthens joints and bones, keeps you mentally sharp and can add years to your life. What better reasons do you need?

6 You’ll save money

At just £15 to enter, the run is great value for money. Many other 10k runs charge runners around £25. And they don’t have our views!

  • Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run is on Sunday, May 25, 2019.

Enter now!

Entries open for Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2019

Entrants in the Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2018
Entrants in the Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2018

Registration for the Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2019 is open now!

It is returning for the third time, after growing entry numbers year on year.

This year’s it again starts and finishes at picturesque Bredon Cricket Club, Westmancote, Worcestershire, at 10am on Sunday, May 26, 2019.

The marshalled 10k route follows pretty country lanes, tracks and paths to the 299m summit of Bredon Hill.

The hilltop is marked by an Iron Age fort and the 18th-century Parson’s Folly tower, and it boasts glorious views of the surrounding countryside.

Entry costs £15 and includes a pre-race warm-up.

After the run, participants and their families and friends can enjoy some live music with Joel Darkes and a barbecue at the cricket club, where the fully licensed bar will be open. There will be a bouncy castle for younger children.

Later in the afternoon visitors will be invited to sit back, relax with a drink, and watch Bredon Cricket Club compete in the Bredon Hill Bash, a 20-over tournament solely for local village teams.

The tower run run is open to just 200 and is expected to be oversubscribed.

Money raised will be shared between the cricket club and the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, who will have a helicopter cockpit on display near the run’s start/finish line.

Places will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.

Runners must be aged 16 to 75.

All entrants receive a finisher’s medal, and there will be trophies for first male finisher, first female finisher and first member of Bredon Cricket Club to finish.

Cricket club chairman Neil Hall said: “It’s back! The popularity of Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run continues to grow, and we’re expecting to welcome even more runners to our beautiful course in 2019.

You can view the route of the run and export it to your device from Strava here.

Click on the link below to register and pay securely via EntryCentral, the secure sports event ticketing specialist.

Bredon Hill Tower Run 2017:
Frequently asked questions

What is it?

A 10k trail run starting and finishing at Bredon Cricket Club and following pretty country lanes, tracks and paths to the 299m summit of Bredon Hill.

When is it?

Sunday, May 26, 2019.

How much does it cost to enter?

£15 (entry includes booking fee and finisher’s medal).

How do I enter?

Follow this link to register and pay securely online at EntryCentral. This is the only method of payment. You will be emailed a receipt and should bring this with you as proof of entry.

Can I pay on behalf of more than one person?

Yes. Just complete the entry form for each runner. When all your registrations are complete you can move through to the checkout and pay for them on one card.

How many runners will there be?

Open to a maximum of 200.

Where is it?

Bredon Cricket Club, Hill Close, Westmancote, near Tewkesbury GL20 7EU.

What time does it start?

The run starts and finishes at Bredon Cricket Club. The first runners set off at 10am, but entrants must arrive at the cricket ground between 8.30am and 9.45am to collect their race number and warm-up.

Does everyone start at the same time?

You will be given a chance when you register online to grade yourself as an expert, intermediate or beginner/fun runner. The expert runners start at the front of the field, the beginners/fun runners at the rear.

What are the age limits?

16 to 75

Is it timed?

No. Runners are responsible for monitoring their own time, if they wish. You can import the route onto your device from Strava here.

Where do I park?

Parking at or near the cricket ground will be signposted on the day.

Can I get a refund if I withdraw from the run before it starts?

Sorry, there are no refunds.

What happens if I do not turn up for the race?

Your place will remain unfilled, but you will not be given a refund. Neither will you receive your finisher’s medal. You are not required to inform us in advance.

Is there a place where I can safely store my stuff during the run?

No. Arrive in your gear.  Leave a change of clothing in your car, or with a friend or relative who can meet you at the start/finish. We would like you to remain at the club after the run to enjoy our barbecue and post-race entertainment.

When do I get my race number? How do I fasten it?

Report to the chief marshal when you arrive at the cricket ground. You will be given your race number. Please bring your own safety pins to attach it to your shirt/vest.

I want to watch the race as a spectator. Where is the best place to go?

The route follows rights of way, but paths are narrow in places so choose where you watch with consideration. The  best spot is the summit of Bredon Hill, where there is plenty of space. Please follow the Countryside Code on Bredon Hill.

Are there any toilet facilities?

There are limited toilet facilities in the cricket club pavilion.

Is the route clearly marked?

Parts will be signposted, and there will be lots of marshals. You will not need a map or navigation aid.

Can disabled people take part in, or watch the race?

Sorry, we are unable to offer facilities for disabled people. Anyone taking part or watching does so at their own risk.

How difficult will it be?

It is a challenging run, with steep gradients on both the uphill and downhill stretches. The terrain encompasses metalled lanes, stony tracks, and paths through fields and woods that may be muddy. But this is a fun event, and you should enjoy it. Go at your own pace… even if that means walking.

Do I need special trail shoes?

Trail shoes may be beneficial, especially in wet weather, but ordinary running shoes will be adequate.

What happens if there is bad weather on the day of the run?

It will only be called off in the event of extreme weather. We will post a notice on www.bredoncricketclub.com the morning of the run ONLY if it is cancelled.

Will water be supplied along the route?

No. Runners are responsible for their own hydration. Bottled water and soft drinks will be on sale in our licensed clubhouse bar before, during and after the run. Please do not drop empty drinks bottles along the route, which is through an area of outstanding natural beauty.

What happens after the run?

Finishers will be handed their medals as soon as they arrive back at the cricket ground. Later, trophies will be presented for the first male finisher, first female finisher, and first finisher who is a member of Bredon Cricket Club. We hope runners, friends and family will remain at the cricket ground to enjoy our hospitality. There will be music, a bouncy castle for small children, and a barbecue. Our licensed bar will also be open. Later there will be a 20-over cricket match that visitors are invited to enjoy.

What happens if all the places are gone when I try to register?

Please do not be too disappointed. Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run is an annual event. You will be given the option to join the waiting list for next year’s run, and will be alerted by email when entries for the 2020 run go on sale.

Can I be told the route in advance, and have a chance to run it?

The route uses public roads and footpaths, so anyone is free to run it in advance at their own risk. The route can be viewed and exported from Strava here.

Can I swap my place with someone?

No. This is not allowed for safety reasons.

Can I wear headphones?

Yes, but please be aware of other runners.

Can I run with my dog?

No. Runners are not allowed to take dogs on the route for safety reasons.

Can I seek sponsorship and take part in aid of a charity?

Bredon Cricket Club is donating a share of proceeds from the run to the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, but you are free to seek sponsorship for a charity of your choice.

Are there any medical facilities?

Trained medics will be at the cricket ground.

Nets open for use after big fund-raising effort

Bredon Cricket Club's refurbished nets
Bredon Cricket Club’s refurbished nets

Bredon Cricket Club’s practice nets re-opened for use this season.

Raising the considerable sum needed for the refurbishment was a big challenge for the club.

But having top-quality practice facilities was seen as a vital step in improving playing standards.

The funds came from several sources, and the club is particularly grateful to Gloucestershire Playing Fields Association, Bredon Parish Council, Sport England and Tesco’s Bags of Help initiative for their support.

Chairman Neil Hall said: “Having new nets was one of the priorities identified by the players a season or two ago, and I’m delighted that the club has been able to deliver on its promise to provide them.”

What they said about the tower run 2018

No, really. He enjoyed it! Here's what they said about the tower run. Picture by Martin Humby
No, really. He enjoyed it! Here’s what they said about the tower run. Picture by Martin Humby

Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2018 has been voted a big success by those who took part.

The slick organisation, friendly atmosphere and “incredible” marshals were singled out for praise by entrants.

The club was delighted by the turnout, which was up by more than 30 on last year’s inaugural event despite several no-shows who were presumably put off by the forecast for unsettled weather.

As it turned out, the rain held off and although it was a little humid, the conditions were good for the runners.

Next year’s run is on Sunday, May 26. Mark it in your diary!

Here are some of the comments we received:

Nicki Wiggins: Great run! Well done to all the organisers and marshals.

Nicholas Smith: A lovely run and so well organised. Thanks to all involved!
I didn’t make top 10 in the race, think I was first for a burger after though! 😂

Laura Claire: Fantastic run, and the weather was perfect!!!! 👍Brilliantly organised just like last year.

Shona Crombie-Hicks: Thank you for a really enjoyable race, great atmosphere and well organised. You put on a fab event, well done all of you 

James Graham: Another good one, will be back again next year hopefully. Thanks to marshals and organisers: you did a great job!

Abi Malice Andrew: Fantastic day, thank you to all the organisers and marshals along route, see you next year.

Lydia Jayne McEvoy: Fantastic race! Marshals were incredible! Will be back next year for my third one! Xxx

Caroline Freeman: Spectated. Great start/finish area and refreshments. Well done 👍👍

Mia Ryland: Really enjoyed the run and the whole friendly atmosphere.

Rob BrayThank you so much to organisers, marshals and fellow runners. I under-estimated the hill so next year a bit more training and a bit less partying the weeks before! Not Mo Farah’s recovery drink of choice but the Stowford went down a treat.

Didn’t take part this year? If you would like a reminder when registration for next year’s run opens just add your details to this form:

Success as tower run dodges the storms

Simon Booth,left, is, for the second year running, first member of Bredon Cricket Club to finish
Simon Booth, left, is, for the second year running, first member of Bredon Cricket Club to finish. Picture by Martin Humby

Bredon Cricket Club’s second tower run dodged the storms this morning to notch up a notable success.

Organisers were delighted with the turnout of 132 runners (there were several no-shows), which was well up on last year’s inaugural event, despite the forecast of thunder and showers.

Humidity made the going tough for some entrants on the ascent of the hill, but it did nothing to slow Steve Kenyon, of Gloucester Athletics Club, who crossed the line in 40 minutes 38 seconds.

His time topped last year’s record of 42 minutes set by Rob Bowery.

Repeating their feats of last year, Simon Booth and Laura Spence were first male and female members of Bredon Cricket Club to finish.

Presenting medals to winners with the help of run sponsor Brad Cooper, of Folly Gardens Veterinary Clinic, club chairman Neil Hall said the event had been a great success.

He paid tribute to organiser Jennie Warren, the route marshals and all the volunteers who had contributed to the day.

After the race, competitors and visitors enjoyed a barbecue and music from the Kings of the Hill.

The storms passed over, but unfortunately left the pitch too wet for a planned 20-over cricket match between the village’s cricket and football clubs.

The runners tackled a challenging but beautiful 10k route from the cricket club in Westmancote to Parson’s Folly tower at the 299m summit of Bredon Hill.

Money raised from the run will be split between the club and the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.

Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2018 took place with tand he kind permission of Overbury Estate.

 

 

It’s a wonderful day for a tower run

Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2018 is on!Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2018 is on!

Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2018 is on today!

Runners will set off on the 10k trail run from Hill Close at 10am.

The weather forecast is for sunny spells and showers.

After the run, there will be live music from the Kings of the Hill and a barbecue at our clubhouse.

Our fully licensed bar will be open through the afternoon, and there will be a bouncy castle for younger children.

A 20-over match between sides from Bredon’s cricket and football clubs is planned for the afternoon.

Everyone is welcome to join us for a family-friendly day at our beautiful ground.

Share your comments and photos on our Facebook page, or use #TowerRun2018 on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.