Mearley Clough
Tue 19 May 2026 at 7:15pm
Inaugurated by Clayton-le-Moors Harriers’ stalwart Geoff Newsham, the first race was in 1998 and attracted a field of 34, with the men’s race won by Garry Wilkinson in 31.55, and the ladies’ race won by Carol Greenwood in 37.11. The attendance has since grown to an average of 130.
In 2011 when the race was an English Championship 187 men and 101 women ran in separate races. It was necessary to alter the route as a one off to cope with the numbers, and the resulting course approached the fell in adjacent fields to the left of the current route. Whilst longer than the normal course Simon Bailey won the men’s race in 27.45, and Lauren Jeska the ladies in 34.29.
A deceptively tough three miler, the course is partially marked. The fields are followed by fast, flattish run to the farm track through the farmyard of Little Mearley Farm (the dogs should be chained up!) and on up the steadily rising track through the woods at the top of which you will be directed over a stile into a rough field. Follow the flags until they drop to cross the brook and up the steeper field to the fell gate. The route then tackles the Big Dipper, and a steep climb follows to the Scout cairn. Skip across the top of the clough then take care on the steep descent to the fell gate. Return by the same route to the finish which is in the field next to Worston House.
A cut-off of one hour will be enforced at the Scout Cairn, shown on the race map.
Held under UKA rules and registered with the FRA. You will need to bring FRA Mandatory Minimum Kit – a recommendation will be given on the day.
Category: AS
Distance: 5.6 km / 3.5 miles
Climb: 380 m / 1247 ft
Venue: Calf's Head, Worston, nr Clitheroe., BB7 1QA
Skills: ER, PM
Minimum age: 14
Registration in the pub
Prizes courtesy of Pete Bland Sports
Enter:
EOD only
Entry on day fee (FRA members): £8.00
Entry on day fee (FRA non-members): £10.00
Includes pasta supper
Records:
Male record: S Tosh (2015) 00:30:12 - 2015
Female record: V Wilkinson (2014) 00:34:33
For more information, contact the RO, Andrew Priory:
Tel: 07503 167630
apriory88@gmail.com