Looking for a challenge? Test your mettle on the extended Puddletown Plod

The Puddletown Plod, held to raise money for St Mary’s Church of England Middle School, has expanded from a 20km run to a half marathon, equivalent to just over 21km.

This year’s event will start at 10.30am on Sunday, June 12.

The race will also be supported by the Dorset Road Race League, which allows competitive runners to count the race towards their recorded times.

Frances Anderson, race director, said: “Lots of people are very happy because runners love to compare their half marathon times. The school is going to have a sports event at the same time so it should make it a big community event.”

Tired runners will be offered cakes at the end of the race, provided by the school pupils in exchange for a non-uniform day.

Frances added: “I think seeing everyone race off the starting line and seeing the pupils involved is rewarding.

“I really want to get them involved as marshals.”

Runners who take part in the Puddletown event might be able to catch a glimpse of elite British runner Steve Way, from Bournemouth, who has competed in the race in the past.

Steve broke the British 100km record at the age of 39 and represented England at the Commonwealth Games in 2014.

“Steve Way took to running in his thirties and has become a legend,” said Frances.

“He has done our race quite a few times and we are very excited that he might be there again.”

The Puddletown Plod is being sponsored by Sainsbury’s in Weymouth, The Blue Vinny pub in Dorchester and accountancy firm Saffery Champness.

Frances said: “The Blue Vinny and Saffery Champness are new sponsors and we are really grateful for their support. They have been very generous.”

For more information, or to register for a spot in the race, visit puddletownplod.co.uk.

The deadline for postal entries is Monday, June 6 but online entries will be accepted until 10pm on the night before the race.

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