ONE of the region’s oldest running clubs is gearing up to celebrate its 125th anniversary.

Darlington Harriers was founded in 1891 and with more than 350 members, is the largest running club in the town.

The club has produced Olympic athletes over the years, including George Butterfield who competed in the 1908 Olympics and Joy Grieveson who represented Great Britain in Tokyo in 1964.

To mark 125 years of athletics, club members have organised a family fun day of entertainment and hope the town will turn out to help them celebrate.

Paul Cook, seasoned marathon runner and head of continuous improvement at Darlington Harriers, said: “It’s as much a celebration for the town as it is the club and 125 years is a great milestone. It gives us the opportunity to celebrate the club and all of its achievements.”

Club members raised more than £20,000 for local and national charities last year alone.

He added: “We’ve planned a full day of activities including some racing events and we’re hoping to have an elite athlete break the record for the four minute mile, which has never been done before in Darlington.”

Veteran club member Ian Barnes, 81, has been running with the Harriers for more than 60 years and says the anniversary is an important one that should be celebrated.

He said: “The sport has changed tremendously over the last couple of decades. It’s much more popular now.

“There is just something about getting out and keeping fit and healthy that makes running so enjoyable. I have no plans to ever stop, although I might stop competing soon.”

The anniversary celebration will take place at Eastbourne Sports Complex, Darlington, on Saturday, May 21 from 10am and entry is free.

A specially designed mural will be unveiled by mayor, Tom Nutt, a brass band will perform and there will be stalls, bouncy castles for children and refreshments.

Mr Cook added: “We’re looking forward to having as many people there as possible to support the event which is looking like it’s going to be one to remember.

“We are a very social club and offer something for everyone, from brand new beginners to experienced marathon runners.

“The club has gone from strength to strength and we are hopeful that we are laying the foundations for future generations to come.”

Anyone who would like to take part in racing events should email Paul Cook at paul.cook@ee.co.uk by Friday, March 4.

Darlington Harriers meet at Eastbourne Sports Complex on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.15pm. Visit darlingtonharriers.co.uk.