Run Nidderdale 10K returns to Pateley Bridge with record-breaking performances and community spirit

Runners gathered at Pateley Bridge Showground before heading out onto a challenging and scenic trail route through Nidderdale in glorious sunshine.

Organised by Nidderdale Fell & Trail, the race combined woodland trails, steep climbs, technical descents and panoramic views across the dale.

The event attracted runners from across Yorkshire and beyond, with many praising the friendly atmosphere, supportive marshals and stunning scenery.

The race was run in accordance with UK Athletics rules under a Trail Running Association permit.

The day also saw two new course records set.

Edward Hobbs, of Ilkley Harriers, stormed to victory in the men’s race in 38.30, while Martha Barker broke the women’s course record with an impressive time of 47.58, finishing 7th overall.

Alongside the racing, the showground hosted coffee, pizza, homemade cakes, sports massage and running retailers, helping create a lively community atmosphere for runners and supporters alike.

The race’s distinctive handmade shortbread medals and handcrafted curlew trophies also proved hugely popular.

The race’s curlew theme even extended onto the course itself, with local runner Matt Trevelyan completing the race dressed as a giant curlew to raise money for curlew conservation, to the delight of runners and supporters alike.

Matt has previously completed a number of iconic endurance challenges, including the Yorkshire Three Peaks, dressed as ‘Cathy the Curlew’ to help raise awareness of the challenges facing these iconic birds — although organisers joked that tackling Run Nidderdale 10K during a heatwave may have been his toughest challenge yet.

Local running YouTuber Ted Leahy of @Ted-Offroad praised the event atmosphere afterwards, commenting that Run Nidderdale 10K had “really made an impact on the running community and calendar”.

The event also raised around £1,000 for its nominated charities – Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association and the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Through the club’s Trail Running Association permit, organisers were also successful in securing grant funding towards race equipment, helping support the future development of events like Run Nidderdale 10K.

Organisers of the Run Nidderdale 10K said: “We would like to thank the large team of volunteers, marshals, local businesses, sponsors and supporters who helped make the event possible.

“We would also like to thank local landowners for allowing access across the route and highlighted the importance of protecting Nidderdale’s wildlife, including the area’s iconic curlews, during the event.”