Local charity Reach Learning Disability is once again gearing up for the annual Mansfield10k on Sunday, 16th September

The charity, which has its Reach Mansfield base at the St John’s Centre, supports adults with learning disabilities from the town and surrounding areas.

Clients, staff and volunteers from across Reach’s four centres will be out in force to support the event this year including two Reach Mansfield staff who are swapping roles.

Last year, Reach Mansfield Project Coordinator Maria Williams ran with her father. This year she will be showing her support again by marshalling at the event.

Maria said: “I ran for Reach last year as I value the work they do; the event was well attended and the crowds were lovely and supportive. It is a great event and this year I have decided to show support from the other side of the track.”

Project Coordinator, Katie Fear, who marshalled last year will this year run the 10k for the first time. Katie only started running in November and intensified her training from March as she chose to take on the Mansfield10k as a challenge.

Katie was motivated to become a runner after volunteering at the event for the past two years. This year Katie hopes to be running with friends from her church.

The Mansfield10k is Reach’s biggest fundraiser of the year and raises much needed funds that enable the charity to continue its work supporting adults with learning disabilities to achieve a better quality of life in their community. Reach needs to raise at least £300,000 in voluntary income in order to continue its work each year.

If you feel inspired to run and fancy taking on the 5k or 10k visit http://www.mansfield10k.co.uk/ to enter.

Volunteer groups are wanted to help at this year’s event from handing out water to marshalling on route. If you would like to get involved call Sarah on 01636 819066 or e-mail [email protected].

Reach would like to thank all sponsors for this year’s Mansfield10k. The event’s main sponsor for 2018 is Mansfield District Council, with Slimming World, The Nottingham Building Society and Full Phat Design also providing sponsorship.

PHOTO: Ben Lumley