We’re absolutely delighted that Redditch Community Runners and Kids Run Redditch have both been shortlisted for the Unsung Project Award at the @englandathletics West Midlands Regional Volunteer Awards taking place at Alexander Stadium on Saturday 3 October! 🏆
Two different clubs, supporting different generations of runners, but both built on the same thing: people giving their time to help others get active, build confidence, make friends and enjoy running.
To have two Redditch-based running projects represented in the same category is something our whole local running community can be incredibly proud of.
Behind both nominations are volunteers giving up their time week after week, runners supporting one another, families getting involved and a shared belief that running really can be for everyone. ❤️
Whatever happens on the night, having RCR and Kids Run Redditch together at Alexander Stadium already feels like a win for grassroots running in our town.
From Couch to 5K to getting the next generation running. Redditch will be very well represented! 🏃♀️🏃♂️🙌
Good luck to both clubs!
Unsung Hero Award
We also are excited to reveal that one of our founders Sonia Tudor has been shortlisted for an Unsung Hero Award. Anyone that knows Sonia will understand why she has been nominated not just for her contribution to Redditch Community Runners but also the Couch to 5k programme.
The nominators said –
“Sonia’s impact on the local running community over the past 12 months has been significant and far-reaching.
“Through the Couch to 5K programmes and progression sessions she has helped deliver, many local residents who had never previously run have now completed 5K runs, joined regular group sessions and become active members of the running community. For many participants, this has improved not only their physical fitness but also their confidence, mental well-being and social connection.
“One participant described arriving at Couch to 5K having never run before and doubting they would be able to complete the programme. Through Sonia’s support and encouragement, they successfully completed the programme and continued running afterwards, describing it as “life-changing”. Stories like this are not isolated examples but reflect the wider impact Sonia continues to have on people throughout the community.
“At the start of the year, Sonia began a specific marathon training plan for members taking part in the 2026 London Marathon. She planned detailed longer routes, inclusive for all speeds of runners. The results spoke for themselves. All RCR runners completed the race and all achieved a personal best time.
“Her work has also helped strengthen the infrastructure and sustainability of Redditch Community Runners. By supporting the expansion of run leaders, improving welfare provision, securing funding and developing partnerships, Sonia has helped ensure the club can continue supporting more runners in the future.
“The club’s increased visibility and engagement within the local community has also encouraged more people to become involved. Through partnerships with local organisations, public-facing activities and collaborative media engagement, more residents are becoming aware that community running opportunities exist for people of all abilities.”
Good luck Sonia, enjoy the awards. All at RCR are proud of you!
