Run through woods is aid of mayor's charity appeal

Councillor Faith Ponsonby will fire the starting pistol on the first Annual Mayor’s Havant 10k Trail Race at Staunton Country Park which takes place at Staunton on Sunday.

The off-road event will take in scenic woodland and grassland through the country park and Havant Thicket, off Middle Park Way, Leigh Park,

There will also be one-mile races around the lake for over-nines and under-16s, organised with the help of Park Community School.

Cllr Ponsonby said: ‘I am really excited that we are having a Havant 10k to show people what a beautiful borough we have.

‘It is something I have wanted to hold for years, ever since running the Great South Run myself in 2013.

‘I am most grateful to Pete Spencer and Havant Athletic Club for arranging this first annual event with the help of Staunton Country Park, Park Community School and Havant Rotary Club.

‘I really hope lots of runners and joggers will join in and have a go, as well as young people taking part in the fun event earlier.’

Cllr Ponsonby said those entering the forthcoming 10-mile Great South Run in Portsmouth could consider using this race as a stepping stone.

Runners can choose to simply pay the small entry fee, or additionally get sponsorship for the mayor’s charities which this year are Stillborn and Neonatal Death Support (Sands), Off the Record, at Leigh Park, and St Faith’s Church Big Build Appeal .

Race sponsorship forms are available from [email protected].

The races begin at 10.30am and can be entered via athleticevents.co.uk or through the Havant Athletic Club website havantac.co.uk. Parking is free at Havant Academy, Wakefords Way.

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