AS HUNDREDS of runners take their places at the starting line at the Bridgwater Bolt 10k this May for one local couple the event promises to be just the start of many more running challenges ahead.

For Paul and Caroline Britton from Bridgwater, the Bolt at Trinity Sports & Leisure on Sunday May 12 (10am-noon) kicks of the 1610 race series which also includes, three10k races at Dorchester, Chard and Shepton Mallet.

Paul was inspired to take up running at the Bridgwater Bolt three years ago to raise money for the Beacon Centre in Taunton following the death of his brother David from Melanoma skin cancer.

Paul raised £600 for the cause but enjoyed completing the Bridgwater Bolt so much that he decided to take on the whole of the 1610 Race Series as well as a number of half marathons.

Two years ago he was joined by his wife Caroline and now the couple are regulars on the 1610 Race Series where they enjoy adding to their medal collection after each race they complete.

Paul says that he and Caroline look forward to the start of the Bridgwater Bolt which has become a very popular and social event: “Initially we ran in memory of David and to raise money for a good cause but we enjoyed taking part so much that we had to do more.

“The Bolt is the generally the biggest event on the series with 700 competitors or more, it is great to turn up and see people you know and it is the easiest race to compete in as there are not so many hills on this one so it is very popular and you get lots of encouragement and moral support on the way round.”

This year’s Bridgwater Bolt takes place at Trinity Sports & Leisure with registration at 8.15am in the Sports Hall with the race itself starting at 10am, runners must be 15 or over.

The Junior 1k Fun Run starts at 10.15am, costs £2.50 to enter, and includes a free climb on the mobile climbing wall and a free swim.

For more details visit 1610.co.uk.