A record 220 walkers and runners took part in the Derwen College 10km Challenge on Saturday 18 April, raising funds for Derwen Charity, which supports life‑enhancing opportunities for students at Derwen College.
Students, staff, families, members of the local community and many pet dogs came together for the annual fundraising event, which supports young adults aged 16 to 25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to build skills, confidence and independence.
The inclusive event offered something for everyone, with a 10km and 6km route through the Shropshire countryside, alongside the popular 1km Teddy Trail, named after the College’s award‑winning therapy dog, Teddy.
Participants completed the challenge in their own way, from competitive runners, with the first finishers crossing the line in 41 minutes, to others enjoying a more leisurely walk. Local running clubs, including Ellesmere Runners, Oswestry Olympians, the Shropshire Shufflers and Llangollen Running Club were out in force.
Oswestry resident Olive Morris, 82, is one of Derwen College’s most valued and long-standing fundraisers. She completed her 57th sponsored walk in support of Derwen College and raises hundreds of pounds in sponsorship every year.
Olive said: “Every year I say it’ll be my last but I keep on going! I’ve had a cold so it was hard going but I didn’t want to let my sponsors down.”
Oswestry’s Joe Shiel chose the Derwen College 10km Challenge as his first run since finishing cancer treatment, marking a personal milestone on his return to fitness.
He said: “This event has given me my confidence back. Crossing that finish line reminded me what’s possible, and it’s sparked my love of running again.”
Joe was joined by fellow runners, including Lisa Plumb, who added: “Joe was the one who first got me into running, so it’s special to be here with him today. I’m doing the London Marathon next weekend, and this was a perfect, gentle warm-up.”
Many students took part in the full 10km, with others completing a 1km around the College’s Woodland Walk. Student Ronan took part in the 10km with his family, together they raised over £300 for Derwen Charity. Matt Robinson, father of student Lucy, raised more than £500.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who came along to make it such a wonderful day. It’s brilliant to see numbers grow every year,” said Events Coordinator Serena Young. “The energy was amazing, with everyone saying what a lovely atmosphere it was. It really showed what the Derwen College community is all about.”
The next big Derwen Charity date in the calendar is the Derwen Fete and Dog Show on Saturday 13 June, the College’s biggest fundraising event of the year. Everyone is invited to come along, enjoy the day and help raise money to support the incredible work of Derwen College.
Find out more about how you can support Derwen Charity at www.derwen.ac.uk/charity
