The countdown is on for the Derwen College 10km Challenge 2026. Walkers and runners are already signing up and training for the annual event, which brings the community together in Gobowen for an inclusive celebration of fitness and fundraising.

On Saturday, 18 April, the college will host the event which sees participants tackle 10km in their own way to raise money for Derwen Charity. Entrants can run, jog, walk, skip or wheel a scenic route which starts and finishes at the specialist college in north Shropshire, winding through local country roads along the way. The charity is urging local runners, walkers and supporters to sign up now to part of this fun fundraiser.

Participants will start from Derwen College’s Gobowen campus site at 10am. Entry is £12.50 and will include a medal and goodie bag. Derwen Charity sports t-shirts will be available to buy separately at sign up and on the day. A 6km option is also available.

Sign-in is from 8.30am–9.45am. This will be followed by a group warm-up led by sports staff before the big countdown at 10am.

Dogs are welcome, and local running groups are encouraged to come along for a fun run. It’s a friendly, no-pressure event, making it the perfect introduction to a 10km distance.

Money raised will go to Derwen Charity, which provides extra experiences and opportunities for our students and clients to progress and thrive.

There is plenty of free parking, and Derwen Marketplace will be open, offering refreshments, and shopping opportunities for participants and their families.

Derwen College Events Organiser Megan Charman is excited to launch the 2026 10km Challenge, which has become an annual favourite in the college’s events calendar.

She says: “Nearly 200 walkers and runners took part in last year’s 10km Challenge, raising almost £4,000 which went towards our new accessible sports track. It was a lovely sunny day where we were delighted to see so many people taking part, including run clubs and dog owners with their four-legged friends.

“While we can’t guarantee sunshine, we can promise a fantastic day that everyone can enjoy –whatever your fitness level or expected finish time. The real highlight is coming together as a community, getting active in the fresh air, and supporting a brilliant cause.”

Find out more or sign up today at www.derwen.ac.uk/derwen-charity-10km-challenge/