Find below notice of the RWA AGM and a Strategy Document 2026-2030. The Strategy document certainly needs discussion but I’ve not had time to offer some comments. Hopefully in the next few weeks I can do so. Whatever it would be excellent if any of our readers have something to say. On looking more carefully I see there is a Zoom meeting to look at the Strategy. I may try to attend from across the Mediterranean and will report back. See the link at the end of this rushed post.
There will be an informal open meeting for discussion / questions & answers where we will aim to outline the thinking behind the changes and answer any questions that anyone has. This again will be staged on Zoom on Thursday 30th October 2025 at 7pm.
Notice from our Chairman, Dave Evans and Greg Smith, our Secretary to members re the forthcoming AGM plus accompanying reports and schedules – for the interest of our supporters and followers too
Pre-AGM photo from 1950!
20th October 2025
Dear member,
On behalf of the Lancashire Walking Club, I would like to invite you to attend this year’s AGM, the 118th, to be held on Saturday 1st November 2025 at Lady Wilton Hall, Simister Lane, Simister, Prestwich, Manchester, M25 2RX.
The AGM will be held after a 5km Race which starts at 1.00pm.
Please do make every effort to attend. The election of officers and decisions to be made for the future success of Lancashire Walking Club depends on your valued contribution. If you are unable to attend, please let me know so that your apologies for absence can be noted.
Chris in action at Longford Park, Stretford – National 10 miles champion 1979
First and foremost, I’d like to thank all the walkers and officials who turn up to keep the Club going without everyone we wouldn’t exist. It’s been a difficult year in many aspects with costs with travel and it’s never easy getting to races. Having lost members and others struggling with illness including myself and quite a few lost forever.
We have a glorious history. The club has been around for a long time, and I want it to continue for a lot more years. I’ve asked myself, how we can encourage existing members and have been searching for ways to increase the club membership? We always need officials and helpers to keep the club going and they are an integral part of the Club along with the walkers, they go hand in hand to keep the Club going. We’ve had printed some Lancashire Walking Club cards to give out to existing members and prospective new competitors. We need to get the word out about who we are and what we do. I’ve been contacted existing members and previous members who we’ve not seen for a while to see what they’re up to. We need good turnouts with officials and competitors. If we only get two or three new members, it’s a win. It’s always difficult especially when some people have never heard of Race Walking or ever dreamed of walking competitively. Especially runners who don’t know we exist or what it’s all about.
Some possible changes for the website to attract interest is an idea to look at. We’re planning on putting on a track race at Bury next year following Tom Bosworth’s initiatives encouraging youngsters and new competitors. So, it’ll be maybe a 2 and 1 kms races in different age groups and some running races which local clubs maybe interested in. As I know from experience these are not easy races to manage. As novices, you have to allow them some leeway while also maintaining the rules of race walking. The senior race might be a handicap, a relay or a NARWA championship. I think we need to look at some new venues but it’s extremely difficult to find a course traffic free with changing facilities. If you any suggestions, please contact me. I’ve enjoyed being president and I’m always available–my email and phone number is on the cards we’ve handed out.
Meantime, keep pushing on and get the word out. Let’s see what the new year brings.
Chris Harvey
Thanks to Dave, Greg, Chris and Roy for the information. The financial report will be presented at the AGM.
Unfortunately, because of issues with my eyes and flying, I must send my personal apologies for being unable to attend the proceedings. Rest assured I will do my best to keep this club website alive, well and interesting. Best wishes to all.
Over the weekend Glyn Jones, the Chair of the Race Walking Association has shared this deeply sad news, which will reverberate across the race walking world.
Dear colleagues,
It is with heartfelt sadness that I have to announce that Eric Horwill after long illness passed away peacefully at his home in the early hours of Saturday morning, 11th October 2025. Eric was Past President of the RWA, a member and coach to Dudley and Stourbridge Harriers, a past member of the Midland Race Walking Association Committee and a distinguished member of the Centurions. In the past, Eric was ever present at race walking fixtures in an official capacity or present to support the youngsters he was coaching at his club. Eric was also a member of Lancashire Walking Club, whom he supported in an official capacity over the past years in many of their fixtures. I have spoken with Eric’s wife Pam today and I am sure you all join with me in sending our sincere condolences to Pam and his daughter Catherine at this very sad time. When I have details of funeral arrangements I will circulate them and should anyone wish to send their condolences I will pass on details of the home address. A very sad time. Eric Horwill R.I.P.
Eric with Irene Pike keeps an eagle eye out as the leaders come into view
As Glyn notes, in recent years Eric was an almost ever present at LWC club races, bringing his vast experience and knowledge to bear on our efforts. Indeed Dave Evans, our club chair and Pat Evans sent the following message to Eric a few days before his death, which heartwarmingly Pam Horwill was able to read to him.
Eric presenting Christine Pearce with a bouquet of flowers in memory of Fred Pearce
Over the next few weeks we will endeavour to fill out the narrative of how much Eric achieved through the decades of his devotion to race walking. In this context we would welcome thoughts, anecdotes and images pertaining to Eric’s career. Send these to Tony at tonymtaylor@gmail.com.
As a taster, find below information and a photo provided by Dave Ainsworth.
Eric qualified as Centurion 390 in the 1966 Leicester-to-Skegness point-to-point race clocking 21:51.09 for 16th position from 47 finishers, as 84 had started. Hosts Leicester triumphed in the team stakes from 6 teams who closed in. His outstanding 2nd completion was at the 1997 Ware Track 24 Hours in Hertfordshire when he covered 165.8 kilometres to finish 7th (from 14 finishers/23 starters) passing 100 miles in 23:17.07 in an event Sandra Brown triumphed over all. It was our longest span between successful UK 100 miles attempts – and earned him an GB International appearance in the Roubaix 28 Hours, becoming the oldest UK athlete to make an international debut. Eric’s low Centurion badge number saw him Chair a number of Centurions AGMs, at which he excelled, this being a tradition that the most senior Centurion performs this AGM task. Eric was 92
A trio of Centurion notables who’ve made great contributions of race walking – taken at an Isle of Man 24 Hours race presentation. L-to-R Eric Horwill RIP C390, Ed Shillabeer C590 & John Eddershaw C299. Photo : Chris Maddocks
Apologies for the late appearance of this report. Some action photos now added – thanks to Chris Pearce and Greg Smith
Joe Hardy and Dan Maskell reunited
Dave Evans reports:
Chris Pearce with the winning team. Thanks to Greg Smith for the photo.
The rescheduled Fred Pearce relay took place against a background of yellow weather warnings across most of the UK and most attendees faced fairly hazardous conditions travelling to and from the venue. With quite a number of club members unable to attend it was decided to reprogramme the relay into a straight 5k race designing teams of 3 with an appropriate time handicap in their respective lockers. No competitors knew who was in their team until the post race buffet and the presentation.
Great to see Dan back on the road
Martin Payne led the field out to the turnaround and came into the finish a comfortable 83 seconds ahead of Roy Gunnett. I understand Martin and Pat Evans both suffered a drenching from a passing motorist on route but were probably already pretty wet by then. It was very pleasing to welcome Dan Maskell for the first time for quite a few years, still displaying a fine walking style. He was pleasantly surprised with his time.
Andrea suitably attired
Many thanks to Sailash for manning the halfway point and Irene Pike for helping with the recording . Chris Harvey, our club president , joined many of the walkers in the last quarter mile or so to encourage them in. Nice gesture.
Our steadfast timekeepers with Joe
Refuge from the storm – the sumptuous buffet. Ta to Greg Smith
Chris Pearce presented walkers and helpers with a sumptuous buffet and 3 excellent prizes.
Results 1. Roy Gunnett 34:25, Joe Hardy 36:19, Pat Evans 37:48. 108 mins 32 2. Martin Payne 33:48, Dan Maskell 37:17, Ian Hilditch 41:36. 108:41(after 4:00 min h/cap) 3. Greg Smith 35:56, Andrea Lennon 46:14. Plus credit handicap adjustment of 27:30 109 mins 40.
Because our next race was to be at Macclesfield on 4th October and has had to be cancelled because of a family funeral involving our host, the next event will be the club AGM at Simister on 1st November 2025. Club members are reminded to put forward their nominations for long distance performer of the year and best performance at any distance.
Young Fred surrounded by a group of indebted admirers
Everything is in place for a highlight of the year, the Fred Pearce Memorial relay. As normal the event will be held from the Lady Wilton Hall, Simister, Manchester M25 2SB. Following the intrusion of OASIS we were forced to move the event to this coming Saturday, September 20th. The hall will be open from 11.30 a.m. and the race will start at 1.00 p.m. We will be using the new course – for details see https://lancswalkingclub.com/2024/12/10/defying-the-elements-at-the-xmas-handicap/
As ever it would be very helpful if you could let Dave Evans know if you are attending and in what capacity – dave.evans08@hotmail.co.uk
Congratulations to Simon Gawne, winner of the MFX Limited End to End Walk 2025. A dominant walk on a day that always promised to be exceptionally challenging and which didn’t disappoint.
Taking the honors in the Ladies Race and joint 3rd overall,with a superb walk, Helen Davies.
Total respect to each and every competitor who turned up on the start line, knowing what the Manx weather was destined to unleash on them.
136 official finishers and two chaps who missed the cut off and in torrential rain and howling wind, still made it to the Sound. Rewriting the definition of determination.
The 2025 Edition of the MFX Limited End to End Walk will be remembered for a while!!
To absolutely everyone involved in yesterday’s event, THANK YOU!!
The presentation is on Thursday 18th at Vagabonds Rugby Club starting at 7pm. Charity raffle in aid of Manx Heart Foundation with a top prizes donated by the Steam Packet and Chris at Up & Running!!
Photo’s will be uploaded to Facebook over the next few days.
Roll on Sunday 13th September 2026.
The MFX Limited End to End Walk Committee.
TOM BOSWORTH RACE WALKING EVENT, SEPTEMBER 27th, LEEDS
Tom reports:
I’m delighted to announce that we have Olympic race walker Diego Garcia, as well as international race walkers Cameron Corbishley and Bethan Davies racing at my event on 27th September!
Running mile races and race walkers mile races for all age groups and seniors.
2pm 27th September. Leeds Beckett university Headingley Campus athletics track.
All walk entries include after party BBQ at Weetwood Hall Hotel, Headingley.
Several people, including Dave Ainsworth and Roy Gunnett, have picked up on this grainy, enthralling video of the Mexico 50 kilometres filmed by the great Larry Young’s father, Robert. Larry was to finish up on the podium in third spot. The conjecture ever since has been whether Paul Nihill could have challenged Hohne if the race had been held the day before in torrential rain!
It’s well worth 17 minutes of your time.
Paul Nihill and Christopher Hohne were together at halfway in 2:10:27.
At a venue in a quiet suburb of Manchester where two young athletes had just broken the famous 4 minute mile the Lancashire walking club promoted its One Hour track race. Historically the one hour event was held to give walkers a chance of winning a special accreditation for walking a set distance in an hour. This was no different but age takes it toll and winning or placing in an event takes preference.
Glyn presses on ahead of Ian and Roy
Tony on his way to victory
Tony Bell confirmed his present good form by outpacing his regular rivals with a very disciplined attack on 9k which he missed by less than 90 metres. It was satisfying to see the return of Sailash Shah to competition , looking strong, and John Crahan who gives everything from a background of athletics field events.
Great to see Sailash back in the groove
John looking aggrieved at Pat’s arrival on his shoulder!
Martyn, feet firmly planted
Pleased to see Chris Bolton at the race and many thanks to Chris Harvey, Greg Smith and Irene Pike for lap recording.
Chris, Irene and another older Chris keeping tabs on the afternoon’s efforts
Results
1. Tony Bell 8918 metres 2. Martin Payne 8676 metres 3. Roy Gunnett 8597 metres 4. Sailash Shah 7881 metres 5. Glyn Jones 7754 metres 6. Joe Hardy 7708 metres 7. Pat Evans 7694 metres 8.John Crahan 7245 metres 9. Ian Hilditch 6890 metres
Roy ignoring the cost of the other weekend’s 50 miles
Dave adds:
Tony walked the legs off the rest of the field but Martin and Roy had a ding dong for most of the race. Roy hasn’t long completed a 50 mile at the Centurions 100 so did remarkably well to stay in contention for most of the 1 hour. Sailash looks a lot better than in previous years. He’s had an injury which has taken 12 months to heal.
Tony receives the Lambert trophy from Dave
Banksy seems to get everywhere
Thanks as ever to Greg Smith for the excellent and unusual photos.
Given the rich history of our club in the classic Centurion challenge to walk 100 miles in 24 hours – indeed we share joint second place with Leicester WC on 41 behind Surrey WC, a magnificent 76 with regard to the number of members, who have achieved this feat – we are obliged to report on the recent Anniversary Hundred from a Lancashire perspective. Thanks are due to Roy Gunnett for his thoughts and to Greg Smith for the images.
A packed home straight
Some thoughts and observations on the 100 race at Lewes August 16th/17th
The weather prior to the day of the race was scorching hot. I noticed the car thermometer was showing 32c on the drive down on Friday to Lewes. It made me think we were probably going to have to contend with such weather during the race the following day.
Luckily, however, the temperature by Saturday had fallen considerably and was ideal for the start of the race. Ironically, the only weather problem was not the heat, rather a very chilly Saturday night.
The race started at the Lewes track at noon on Saturday August 16th. There were 40 entrants drawn from around the world. As usual there was a particularly strong Dutch contingent.
Roy with Sue Clements in close contact
It was great having Martin Fisher as a Lancashire Walking Club partner in the race. Martin had come along with Phil Carroll who acted as his attendant.
I could not have had a more experienced club partner than Martin – with his record of 27 completed centurion races. This is the highest number of finishes for a UK man, only surpassed by Sandra Brown.
Roy nearing 50 kilometres
Overall, I was pleased to get to 50 miles in the race. The first 50k I did without a break. I then stopped for a while to change my shoes and regain some energy. My next target was to reach 50 miles. I eventually achieved this my doing the following 19 miles in 3 stages with a break between each stage.
Once I made it to the 50 mile point I was all in and could go no further.
As you would expect Martin put in a sterling performance. He was still going strong at the 24 hour point, clocking up nearly 80 miles.
Frank van der Gulik and Martin
One of the benefits of a track race is that you get continual encouragement, namely from the other competitors, the helpers around the track and the spectators. You also have feed and drink facilities always on hand and, most importantly for a man of my vintage, ample Portaloos!
The vital source of support
John Lees and Dave Ainsworth gave a splendid commentary throughout the race on the loudspeaker system. Both Dave and John are walking encyclopaedias of the sport and they imparted some fascinating stories and anecdotes from the past.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank those that helped me on my walk, in particular an enormous thank you to Phil Carrol, Sailash Shah and Greg Smith off the track and Martin Fisher on the track. Without their support and encouragement, I would have found it considerably more difficult, if not impossible.
One of the pleasures in taking part in these events is that you get a ring side seat to watch the other competitors. Jonathon Hobbs, the first Britain home, walked superbly throughout.
Jonathan Hobbs on his way to a third national title – apologies not sure of photographer
Towards the end there were some great displays of guts and determination from the walkers straining to complete the 100 before the clock struck 12 on Sunday.
Heading into the evening sun
Another enjoyable feature of the weekend was the relay that took part alongside the 100. The relay competitors used the outside lanes. It was great to see so many Centurions taking part in this relay, a real ‘Who’s Who’ from the past. They included from our own club Ron Wallwork and Chris Bolton.
The legendary Richard Brown doing his bit in the relayThe club immortal, Ron Wallwork with Martin
Chatting to Martin Fisher after the race we both agreed it was a great weekend and, most importantly, we had fun.
Roy Gunnett
Martin Fisher adds:
Roy and I had great time at the weekend and were proud to represent the club..I will send through a little report when I return home….I will also send through some details for next year’s the Nijmegen to Rotterdam. It’s a steady group walk 160km and the RMV club who organise this event would like to see Lancashire walkers there…let’s see if there’s interest.
And if the flesh was willing I’m sure Chris Bolton, who was the oldest living Centurion at Lewes, would be first in line – remember he’s finished 19 Nijmegens!
In another moment of nostalgia here’s Chris’s account of his 1961 achievement, taken from the excellent Centurions 1911 website
My Story
In May 1957 I went to Blackpool to watch the finish of the Manchester to Blackpool relay race. This was an eleven man relay featuring the best running clubs from the Midlands and North of England. It was there that I met Vic Murray who told me that each year he walked Manchester to Blackpool, a distance of 51.75 miles. I couldn’t believe anyone could walk that far; he then told me that he had walked 100 miles within 24 hours and was Centurion No. 256. At that moment ambition was born and I knew that I wanted to be a Centurion. Four weeks later, aged eighteen and with no training or preparation I stood on the start line at 6-15 am to walk from Manchester to Blackpool. With only the confidence and ignorance of youth I kept with Vic for forty miles. At that point I decided to retire and a message was sent a car to pick me up. After sitting at the side of the road for forty minutes I realised that the message must have gone astray and as one of last walkers passed (Billy Watson C146) I decided to join him and finish the race. In the end I finished in 11 hours and 3 minutes, just behind Billy but in last place. Well that certainly wasn’t am auspicious start but I was hooked. Five years later I finished the Manchester to Blackpool Walk in fourth position and led Lancashire Walking Club to the Team Title. Seven days later I qualified as a Centurion, finishing together with Brian Howarth and Paddy Dowling, and I would be forever grateful for the chance meeting with Vic Murray. On crossing the finishing line I was the youngest Centurion at that moment, not the youngest ever. However 48 minutes later Davey Moncrieff of Sheffield crossed the line and he was three months younger than I was so that distinction didn’t last long.
Chris Bolton
Chris at the track side in the gaudy shirt
Perhaps someone could have a go at putting names to the faces!?
Grateful thanks to Brian Boggenpoel for the two photos of the Social Walk around the sites of Lewes.
A quick note to confirm that the Bury One Hour race will take place on Saturday, September 6th, starting at 1.00 p.m. The venue will be open from noon.
Bury Athletics Club, Market St, Bury BL9 9FX
As ever it would be very helpful if you could let Dave Evans know if you are attending and in what capacity – dave.evans08@hotmail.co.uk
Forgive the late notice and brevity but I seem to be on a merry-go-round of medical appointments following a somewhat melodramatic collapse at home a few weeks ago. At this moment no one can put their finger on the reason, despite all manner of tests. I don’t like to think so but perhaps it’s the village red!!
However to whet your appetite for a forthcoming Lancashire focus on the recent Hundred in Lewes, here are a couple of great photos taken by Greg Smith.
Martin Fisher striding outRoy ‘Shades’ Gunnett looking cool in the evening sunshine
Lancashire Walking Club : Health The First Wealth 