An intrepid team of runners from one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of sausage and meat products put their best feet forward at an iconic event.

The four-strong group from James T. Blakeman and Co. Ltd laced up their running shoes to line up alongside thousands of other people to tackle the Potters ‘Arf – one of the most iconic half marathons in the country.

This year’s 13.1 mile challenge saw just under 2,000 take their place on the starting line for an event which includes infamous inclines including one at the 12-mile mark called “Heartbreak Hill.”

The Blakemans’ team of four each ran a section of the race to raise money for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice.

The intrepid four were James Morris, Head of Business Development at the business, Roger Whitehurst (who is one of their buyers), his wife Angela and Claire Old who is related to one of the senior members of staff at the firm.

A target of £6,500 has been set by the company as its fund-raising target during the current year which is its 65th birthday – the equivalent of £100 per year!

The Potters ‘Arf is the latest in a series of events which have already taken place.

This weekend a group from the Newcastle-under-Lyme based business is tackling a 100-mile bike ride and “wild camp” between Staffordshire and Shropshire.

Mr Morris said: “The Potters ‘Arf has been running consecutively since 2005 when it replaced the full Potteries Marathon.  The crowds who lined up to support those taking part were amazing 

“The four of us were delighted to be involved in such a fantastic event and the money raised keeps us ticking over towards our £6,500 for the “Dougie Mac” which is our nominated charity for this special year in the history of the Blakemans’ business.”

As well as the gruelling event this weekend, preparations are also well in hand for one of the biggest events in the Blakemans’ calendar on 21 July when the company will be holding a Family Fun Day at Newcastle Town Football Club with a packed programme of events scheduled.

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