Back in November, when on duty at the crossroads, I mentioned in a previous post a lovely moment when a passing older couple stopped to chat. They were so pleased to see race walkers on the road and waxed lyrical about the days when the village of Sutton was a hot-bed of our sport.

At the heart of this was the Barnard family. In a recent conversation with Marshall himself, Roy Gunnett observed that there were three Barnards in the 1952 Manchester-Blackpool programme, namely,

G W Barnard – Sutton WC (Marshall’s father)

Dick Barnard – Sutton WC

B J Barnard – Sutton WC

Also walking in the race was Albert Rigby – Marshall’s uncle in law

Hence competing in Sutton always has a historical resonance. Being there on the road breathes fresh life into the Barnard family’s and the village’s significance. in the history of our sport.

Thus our next club race is the Barnard Trophy 10 kilometres to be held on Saturday, July 1st in Sutton Macclesfield, starting at 1.00 p.m. As is now usual it would be really helpful if you could let Dave Evans know if you are attending and in what capacity. It also helps Marshall with the refreshments.

Contact Dave at dave.evans08@hotmail.co.uk