TV presenter Vernon Kay will start the charity Run Around the Runway Run being organised by British Airways and Manchester Airport.
The presenter and gameshow host from Bolton will sound the horn to start the unique annual 6km race around the Manchester Airport runways on March 13 in aid of Flying Start, British Airways’ global charity partnership with Comic Relief, and the airport’s charity CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people.
A keen sportsman himself, Vernon will chat to runners and supporters and present medals to all the finishers.
British Airways and Manchester Airport have teamed up for the second year to give people the chance to run – or walk – around the busy runways and raise cash for the charities. The event is open to everyone, not just airline and airport staff.
From the more advanced runners, to joggers, walkers and family fun-runners, on Sunday, March 13, they will all have the opportunity to spot passing planes up close, as they follow the 6km route around the perimeter of the UK’s third largest airport.
Participants will be required to raise a minimum of £30 in order to take part, which is in lieu of an entry fee.
Prizes, which include long haul British Airways flights, will be awarded for:
- 1st place overall
- 2nd place overall
- 3rd place overall
- 1st place junior (Under 16)
- Best fancy dress categories
- Best fundraiser for money raised
There will also be a family fun day at the airport’s Runway Visitor Park, located to the west of the airport, while the runners complete the course.
Participants will follow a specially designated route around Manchester Airport’s runways, which takes on the Runway Two Nature Trail through the Bolin Valley, as well as being within ‘spotting distance’ of inbound and outbound aircraft, landing and taking-off.
Those competing at a more leisurely pace will be able to read information boards around the Trail giving information on woodlands and grasslands, ponds, the River Bollin tunnel, bats, archaeology and a sculpture of the British Airways Concorde made out of willow.
To find out more information about the Run Around the Runway Run event or to sign up, visit the Manchester Airport website.