Claret's kick off Burnley 10k countdown

Matthew Lowton (far left) and Ben Mee (far left) showing their support for the Burnley 10k event.

Speaking at the club’s Barnfield Training Centre, players and charity representatives alike commended Burnley for the town’s communal attitude towards the upcoming run on Sunday, June 4th, at which around 2,000 participants are expected.

Growing in popularity, the Burnley 10k is now in its fifth installment and continues to go from strength to strength as part of the Asda Foundation 10k Series, which runs events across the North and the Midlands.

“All the family can get involved in a 10k,” said Burnley midfielder, George Boyd. “Community’s one of the biggest things in Burnley and the football club are behind it.

Burnley midfielder George Boyd at the launch event.

“Health and fitness are massive, so getting kids involved is great,” he added. “The charity work is another massive reason behind it all.”

“We know that when the event rolls into Burnley the community comes out in force,” said Vicki Robinson, public relations manager for the Burnley 10k.

“It’s so important for local charities, so if you’re on the fence, take a look at the website, give yourself and nudge, and come along.”

With Ben Mee and Matthew Lowton also throwing their support behind the Run for All-organised event, which will follow the same picturesque Towneley Park route as last year, is gearing up for a blockbuster edition.

“Burnley has such a great sense of community and Pendleside feel part of that,” said Kaye Bartle, Fundraising Manager at Pendleside Hospice. “We have about 300 people running for us, and - in total - we’ve raised about £110,000 in the past four years.

“People who run for us have a very personal reason for doing so, and it makes them very motivated,” Kaye added. “Go for it and you’ll be swept along by the enthusiasm.”

“It’s about a common cause, giving something back,” said Andy Voss, CEO at CARES. “Community begins at home, charity begins at home, so live life with no regrets! Sign up and enjoy the day.”

Famous as one of the Clarets’ more prolific runners, Boyd is coy on his own 10k times. “Ooh, I don’t know,” he said when asked what his 10k time would be. “I usually do about 10k in a 90-minute game, so hopefully it wouldn’t take too long!”

Entries are open at http://www.runforall.com/10k/burnley/.