Former England football manager launches new-look Lincoln 10K

Former England football manager Graham Taylor was back on his Lincoln home turf on November 6 in order to launch the new Asda Foundation Lincoln 10K.

The not-for-profit company Run For All has entered into a partnership with the City of Lincoln Council after cuts lead to the loss of its own sports and activities service.

The event was launched at Lincoln Cathedral, with representatives from partner charities, the Mayor of Lincoln Councillor Brent Charlesworth and group of youngsters in training.

The 19th annual race, on March 22 2015, will see thousands of runners take to the streets of Lincoln in order to raise tens of thousands of pounds for good causes.

Run For All is part of the lasting legacy left by the late Jane Tomlinson CBE, who raised almost £2 million for charity through a series of endurance challenges, despite being diagnosed with incurable cancer.

The event attracts fundraisers from all over the world and the route takes in some of Lincoln’s historic landmarks including its cathedral, castle and the city’s Roman walks.

The 2015 Asda Foundation City of Lincoln 10K route map.

Young runners aged between 9 and 14 are also encouraged to register for their spot on the free Arena Group City of Lincoln Mini and Junior Runs, which take place on Saturday, March 21.

The official partner of the Arena Group Mini and Junior Run is St Andrew’s Children’s Hospice, the only hospice of its kind in Lincolnshire.

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Graham Taylor, a former Lincoln City player, said: “Lincoln is a wonderful city and I’m delighted to help launch such an excellent event as the 10K.

“The runners will get great support and, along with the achievement of crossing the finish line, they will have the satisfaction of helping some really deserving charities.”

Julie Ward, of the Asda Foundation, which supports Run For All’s 10K series, said: “The 10Ks in Leeds, York, Burnley and Hull are very successful and raise much needed funds for charity. Lincoln is a great addition to the series and we are delighted to be involved.

Councillor Donald Nannestad, Portfolio Holder for Recreational Services and Health at the City of Lincoln Council, added: “The 10K has a great tradition and we are excited by working with Run For All to improve it still further. We look forward to welcoming people to Lincoln for what we are sure will be a great event.”

Participants in the 10K can choose to run for fun or raise funds for any cause of their choice.

People are particularly encouraged to support one of the event’s partner charities: LIVES, Macmillan Cancer Support, St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance, The Brains Trust, the Mayor of Lincoln’s charity and the Jane Tomlinson Appeal.

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Veronica Brien, Head of Fundraising and Marketing for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said: “We are delighted to be one of the chosen charities to benefit from the 2015 City of Lincoln 10K event.

“Over the years we have been fortunate enough to have numerous supporters who have participated and chosen to support St Barnabas by raising whatever they can, many of which have donned various fancy dress to complete the race.”

Anyone interested in taking part in the event can register via the Run For All website.