Joining a running club isn’t only about chasing a new time, it is about joining a community of likeminded people. Hear from Redway Runners about what makes their club so great.

In May 2021, England Athletics launched a 12-year strategic plan following extensive consultation with multiple stakeholders from across the sport. Putting athletes and runners at the heart, the strategic plan focuses on creating opportunities, enhancing experiences and powering potential. The overarching purpose of the strategic plan is to inspire more athletes and runners of all abilities and backgrounds to fulfil their potential and to have a lifelong love for the sport, with a clear vision for athletics to become a more inclusive sport where everyone belongs and can flourish. Two and a half years on, we are pleased to present a snapshot of progress within our key focus areas.

On behalf of everyone at England Athletics, we wanted to thank you all for everything that you have committed to our great sport during 2023. We also wish you and your close ones a very happy holiday season, and hope you are able to recharge your batteries ahead of an action packed 2024 athletics and running season across England.

Newquay and Par AC have been working with England Athletics towards achieving the club standards, so the club has good governance and duty of care. Building upon these standards, the club wanted to become a greater club by providing a vibrant environment of their athletes. The collaboration created a project plan to make this a reality.

Celebrating their tenth birthday this year, HAWCS Athletics Club have gone from strength to strength throughout the last decade. Based in Ware, Hertfordshire, the club caters for athletes of all abilities from age 10 to masters.

The Lions Running Community, a free affiliated club based in Chorley, have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service. This is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.

At the north east awards, we caught up with Ellie Richardson, the female Welfare Officer on the Durham City Harriers committee, to learn more about what drew her to the role.

Many RunTogether groups up and down the country relies on their local streets and green spaces to run their sessions with running being one of the most accessible sports for people to take part in. However, some RunTogether groups are now looking to local venues to help facilitate extra varied sessions as is the case for North Yorkshire’s Team Caterpillar.