Time is running out for anyone looking to compete at this weekend’s Sherwoods Vauxhall Darlington 10K. Sunday’s (13 August) looks set to be a memorable occasion with the popular north east event preparing to celebrate its 30th birthday. 

The course is known to offer a prime opportunity for a late summer PB and takes runners on a traffic-free, two-lap course that finishes on High Row. As with previous years, the event will also incorporate a 3k Junior Fun Run and Family Fun Run, the perfect family precursors to the 10k race later in the morning.

2016 saw a number of top regional athletes battle it out in a thrilling contest at the front with Elswick Harriers’ Tadele Geremew Mulugeta taking first in 31:26, just four seconds ahead of Abraham Tewelde, with Tyne Bridge Harriers’ Marc Fenwick in third (31:55).

Charnwood’s Gemma Steel, top at last weekend’s Asda Foundation York 10K, secured a comprehensive victory in 33:47. Steel was around a minute and a half ahead of Rosie Smith (35:05), with Mary Ferrier third (37:44).

As part of the 30th birthday celebrations on Sunday, organisers have increased the prize package to £600 for the first place finisher, £350 for second and £225 for third. The current course records, which stand at 30:06 and 33:05, could well be under threat in what is likely to be a hotly-contested event.

Registration for the race is priced at just £16.50 (£14.50 affiliated).