On Sunday, Newport & District Running Club’s Emily Pope took part in the Worcester Festival 5k, and afterwards, was kind enough to send us this report:

The Worcester Festival 5k route started on Diglis Playing Fields, one of Worcester City parks sites. Diglis lies at the heart of Worcester’s historical marine trade. The flat route took us around The Diglis Basin, where the Worcester and Birmingham Canal joins the River Severn, and over Diglis Bottom Lock. 

We followed the river footpath past Worcester Cathedral and over Worcester Bridge. The race then returned along the river, crossed the Diglis Bridge, and finished back at the playing fields. The route started and finished on grass, with the rest of the race on tarmac and paved surfaces.

Paul Evans of Black Pear Joggers organised the race in partnership with Worcester Festival. All finishers received a chocolate bar, bottle of water and a medal. I was pleased to finish in 15th position overall and 3rd lady, in a time of 00:22:16, scooping extra prizes of a box of chocolates and a cash prize.

Emily Pope after the Worcester Festival 5k

The entry fees for the 5k race supported a free 2k family fun run which followed the end of the 5k event. I would recommend the Worcester Festival 5k and 2k for adults and children alike. Parking is free on local roads, the course is pleasant alongside the river, and you can treat yourself to an ice cream, or have your face painted at the end.