Bridgnorth Running Club lights up the High Street to help lift the winter curfew

As the evenings draw in, plenty of runners face the same dilemma: head out into the dark and cold, or stay safely indoors. Unlit streets and unwanted comments from passers-by can create an informal winter curfew, particularly for people running alone. Bridgnorth Running Club is determined to change that.

For the second year running, the club partnered with England Athletics and the This Girl Can campaign to host an evening run as part of the national 'Let's Lift the Curfew' initiative, which champions safety, builds confidence and encourages people to keep active together through the darker months.

Runners gathered beneath the well-lit Town Hall on Bridgnorth High Street at 7pm on Monday 26 October, wearing high-visibility kit and head torches, for a planned five-kilometre route around the town. Three pace groups set off at staggered times, with an easy-paced group leading the way, so everyone could enjoy a sociable, secure run whatever their fitness. Local venue Peepo supplied complimentary pizza for the post-run celebrations.

The club hopes the evening shows that running in Bridgnorth can be safe, friendly and enjoyable all year round, and gives prospective members a chance to see what it has to offer.

It has been a busy autumn. The club also organises the Bridgnorth 10K, which returned on Sunday 18 October with a start and finish at the Town Hall. The undulating route takes in Castle Walk, Cartway, Wenlock Road, Ludlow Road, Bridge Street and Railway Street, passing close to the River Severn, and Cartway and Railway Street provide the toughest climbs.

The race has a reputation for strong community support and has sold out in previous years. Every finisher receives a souvenir T-shirt and medal, with prizes for the first three male and female runners.

The club's advice for winter is simple: dress for the weather, wear safe running gear, and show winter what the local community is made of.

To find out about joining or future events, look for Bridgnorth Running Club on social media or the runABC race listings.