Accrington Road Runners Celebrate 40 Years with 40-Mile Relay

40 years. 40 miles. One club

Accrington Road Runners marked their 40th anniversary in style on Sunday 31st August, staging a special 40-mile relay run through Accrington and surrounding towns — retracing some of the routes the club has enjoyed over the past four decades.

More than 60 runners past and present took part, each completing at least one mile of the route. The relay began at 6am from the club’s base at Accrington Cricket Club, with Pamela McCullagh and Vanessa Oldham setting off with a specially made baton to carry across Hyndburn.

Relay coordinator Liam Moden expertly organised the event, ensuring every runner had an allocated time slot and hand-over location. The weather stayed kind throughout the morning, creating the perfect atmosphere for a community celebration.

The final mile began at 1pm from the corner of Whalley Road and Ribblesdale Avenue, where around 40 club members were joined by three of the club’s founding members along with the Mayor and Mayoress of Hyndburn. Together, they completed the last stretch back to Accrington Cricket Club, marking a fitting conclusion to the run.

Back at the club, more than 100 members, friends, and supporters gathered to reminisce, share stories, and celebrate the club’s history. A special memorabilia display showcased four decades of achievements, races, and unforgettable moments. Many of the runners also wore a commemorative 40th anniversary t-shirt to mark the occasion.

“It was a real privilege to coordinate such a special event for the club,” said Liam Moden, Relay Coordinator. “Seeing runners from across the generations come together, share the miles, and celebrate everything Accrington Road Runners has achieved over the past 40 years was fantastic. The enthusiasm and camaraderie on the day summed up exactly what this club is all about.”

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