RUNNERS from the Sudbury area who have entered the London Marathon and need some companionship as their training regime enters the vital last few months have been urged to get in touch with the town's running club Sudbury Joggers.

RUNNERS from the Sudbury area who have entered the London Marathon and need some companionship as their training regime enters the vital last few months have been urged to get in touch with the town's running club Sudbury Joggers.

Around 10 runners from the club plan to take part in this year's event in the capital on April 13, and for five of these participants this will be their first time.

“We're a friendly bunch and we're very much about encouraging each other. It's not about who's the fastest but about meeting up with other people who enjoy running,” said Jackie Morton, an active member of Sudbury Joggers.

According to Mrs Morton, runners from the club competed in 74 official races last year, including events as far away as New York and Vienna.

However, she is eager to emphasise the club, which currently has around 50 members, is not just for runners who want to test themselves in a competitive environment.

She added: “We meet up on a weekly basis and runners can either do a time-trail run or a social run. Whatever type of running you are into there will always be someone to run with.”

Prior to the London Marathon, the next big date on the Sudbury Joggers' calendar is Good Friday March 21, the date of the Sudbury Fun Run - a five-mile event, which starts in North Street in Sudbury and finishes at Great Cornard Upper School Sports Centre.

And in July Sudbury Joggers will be holding its own race through the town.

“Anyone who wants to get in shape for any of these events is welcome to join us as well,” said Mrs Morton.

The Sudbury Joggers meet every Wednesday evening at 7:20 outside Sudbury Upper School and set off at 7:30. Newcomers are welcome.

BY ROSS BENTLEY