The National 10k is moving to a new venue (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

The National 10k is moving to a new venue

THE National 10k run is moving to a new venue for this year's event - just a few miles along the road from Moreton-in-Marsh to Bourton-on-the-Water.

The date pencilled in is Sunday, October 5, and in explaining the reasons for the move, Bryan Kelly, a member of the organising team, said: "This is a young event, only in its third year, and it's important we keep costs in line with anticipated income if it is to meet its long-term objectives.

"Last year's venue, the Fire Service College at Moreton-in-Marsh, was very kind to the National 10k, but like all businesses it is having to take a more commercial approach, which we fully understand.

"The College is still the venue we are focused on for the 100k World Cup, which comes to the UK in 2006, and possibly other events."

The move to Bourton-on-the-Water will provide a fast, flat and safe course running through one of the most striking villages in the Cotswolds.

It will also keep the event within the area of Cotswold District Council, which was very supportive of last year's National 10k.

The change of venue has the support of Bourton Road Runners Club, and Cheltenham Rotary Clubs and Gloucester Amateur Athletics Association have again offered help with marshalling and other duties.

National 10k race director Norman Wilson has planned a course suitable for the two national championships that will be part of this year's event - the AAA of England National Championships and the UK CAU Championships.

People can enter the events online at www.activeeurope.com or by downloading entry forms from the National 10k website at www.national10k.co.uk.