News

More than 1,000 runners and their supporters took to the streets of Barnstaple on Sunday 27 September for RUN Barnstaple, organised by Children's Hospice South West (CHSW). The event once again attracted participants from across the South West and beyond with runners taking on the marathon, half marathon, 10K and Final Mile races along the scenic route through North Devon.

Known for its flat and fast course, RUN Barnstaple continues to establish itself as one of the region's leading road running events, appealing to runners aiming for personal best performances as well as those taking on a new challenge. The event is licensed by Run Events and holds a Certificate of Course Accuracy making the marathon a perfect race for Good for Age qualification.

The marathon saw an impressive turnout, with Michael Wilsmore taking first place in the men's race with a time of 2:33:40.3, followed by Ben Hicks and Matthew Wheeler.

In the women's marathon, Deborah Bruce crossed the finish line first in 3:05:14.1, ahead of Joanne Page and Rachel Astington.

In the men’s half marathon, Sam Tabberner from Clevedon AC led the field with a time of 01:16:05.4, followed by Oliver White from Exmouth Harriers and Connor Keeler from Team Bath Athletics Club.

The women's half marathon saw Elizabeth White take victory in 01:26:46.0, with Melissa Hills coming second and Laura Carolan from North Devon Tri placing third at yesterday's event.

The 10K race also attracted a strong field, with Josce Syrett claiming first place in 00:35:53.5, ahead of Sam Karthauser from North Somerset Athletics Club and Mahi Bailey.

In the women's 10k race, Davina Finch from Bideford AAC took the top spot with a time of 00:42:14.9, followed by Tanya Khanom from Coach Kates Speed Squad (Australia) and third went to Claire Hobson.

This year's event welcomed over 100 volunteers who gave up their time to support the event and CHSW.

Kate Romo, Race Director for RUN Barnstaple, said: 
"Congratulations to everyone who took part in this year's RUN Barnstaple. Once again, we were delighted to welcome runners of all abilities to Barnstaple for what proved to be a fantastic day of racing.

The event continues to grow year after year and that's thanks to the incredible support we receive from our runners, volunteers, sponsors, suppliers and local community. The atmosphere around the course was exceptional and we hope everyone enjoyed the experience.

We're also incredibly grateful to every participant who chose to fundraise for Children's Hospice South West. Every pound raised will help us continue providing vital care and support to babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families across the South West."

The event was once again supported by headline sponsor Wollens, who returned for a second consecutive year. Michelle Pugh, Marketing Manager, Wollens Solicitors said: “At Wollens, we're passionate about supporting the communities we serve, so it was a privilege to be the headline sponsor of Run Barnstaple for the 2nd year. Seeing so many people come together to support Children's Hospice South West was genuinely inspiring. The funds raised will help the charity continue its incredible work supporting children with life-limiting conditions and their families. We'd like to thank everyone who ran, volunteered, donated or cheered from the sidelines and helped make the event such a memorable success.”

CHSW would like to extend a huge thank you to all the event sponsors; Wollens, Bond Oxborough Phillips, Brend Collection, Stagecoach, Travel Chapter, TDK-Lambda UK and Thirsty Work for being part of this year's event.

The popular Final Mile children's race, kindly sponsored by Make Waves Swim School, saw 213 children from 19 local schools take part. The team from Make Waves Swim School got the race underway, and despite a brief rain shower, spirits remained high as the young runners gave CHSW mascot Buddy The Bear plenty of high fives before proudly collecting their medals at the finish line. Their enthusiasm helped create a fantastic atmosphere and made the race a memorable part of the day. 

With funds raised still being counted, the event hopes to raise £90,000 for Children's Hospice South West, helping to support more than 500 families across the South West through hospice care, respite stays, emergency care, end of life care and bereavement support.

Following another successful year registration for RUN Barnstaple 2027, taking place on Sunday 26 September 2027, is now open. Runners can secure their place at www.chsw.org.uk/runbarnstaple