Disused railway tunnels and flying monks fail to slow Frome runners in August

Frome runners at the Hullavington 10K

When the Somerset & Dorset Railway closed in 1966, the Devonshire and Combe Down tunnels under the city of Bath were sealed up and made inaccessible to the public. In recent years, the tunnels have been renovated and reopened, and are a favourite among walkers, cyclists and also runners. So much so that the Two Tunnel race series has become a firm favourite for local athletes. The latest series of races was held on August 19. These fast, flat routes take runners through both tunnels and into the outskirts of Bath. Sally Brooker (FV50-59) lined up for the 10K distance and posted a time of 00:55:11. She was closely followed by Jan Lake (FV50-59) in 01:00:43. Emma Evans (FV40-49) lined up for the 5K Two Tunnels race and crossed the line in 00:27:20.

On the same day, more Frome Club runners made their way to Wiltshire for the Hullavington 10K. Joseph Donworth (MSEN) again led the field for Frome in this undulating, picturesque course, coming in fifth overall with a time of 00:34:57. He was followed by Martin Ward (MV60) in 00:53:40 and Helen James (FSEN) in 01:07:58.

The following Sunday, 26 August, more runners took part in the Malmesbury Flying Monk 10K. The race gets its name from the 11th Century monk Eilmer of Malmesbury and his fledgling attempts at human flight. Unlike Eilmer, Frome’s Club runners reach the finish line unscathed, with Martin Ward (MV60) taking fourth position in category with a time of 00:51:29, followed by Richard Riley in 00:51:59.

Frome Running Club offers both on and off-road training and welcomes new members, whatever the ability. For more details, visit www.fromerunningclub.co.uk.