The countdown is on for the relaunched Derwen College 10km Challenge, an inclusive event where everyone can do 10K in their own way to raise money for Derwen Charity.

The fundraising event takes place on Saturday, 23 March. It will see the local community come together with students, staff and supporters, to run, jog, walk, skip or wheel a scenic route which starts and finishes at the specialist college in Gobowen winding through local country roads along the way. Lots of families, including quite a few dogs, have already signed up, however spaces are still available.

Entry is £10 (dogs are free!) and each participant will receive a medal and goodie bag. The medals have been produced by local dog accessories and gift business Babrack, and are made from eco-friendly plywood. Derwen Charity t-shirts will be available to buy separately on the day.

The challenge, which starts at 10am, is open to anyone. Check-in opens at 8.30am, with registration and sign in closing at 9.45am. There will be a group warm-up led by Derwen College sports staff.

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. There’s also a 6km alternative route available.

Money raised will go to Derwen Charity, which supports students and clients who have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) with tools, equipment and experiences to enhance their learning and independence skills, and reach their goals.

There is plenty of free parking, and Derwen Marketplace will be open, offering refreshments, and shopping opportunities for participants and their families. Visit The Walled Garden Café, Garden Centre & Gift Shop and The Vintage Advantage charity shop for some well-deserved retail therapy.

Derwen College Community Fundraiser and Events Organiser Megan Charman has been busy perfecting the final touches.

She says: “We are very excited to be counting down to the 10km Challenge, and were delighted to receive the locally-crafted wooden medals, ready to hand out to our deserving walkers and runners. We recommend that anyone wanting to join in registers in advance to ensure they get their lovely medal. However, registration is open from 8.30am for late entrants, so why not bring your family, friends and dog along for a Saturday morning spring walk?”

Find out more or sign up today at https://derwen.me/10kmChallenge