September 2026
Saturday 5th September 2026 was the 22 mile Trail Outlaws 'Cheviots Challenge'. The Cheviots Challenge is organised to raise funds for the Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team. A voluntary organisation whose members share a common interest in providing and important life saving service 24 hours a day 365 days of the year. Congratulations to Tom King who completed the race in a time of 14hrs 53mins. Awesome effort Tom !
'The Lap'
Saturday 12th September 2026 is 'The Lap' is a beautiful 72K/47 mile fully signposted ultra marathon, on some of the most stunning and runnable trails in The Lake District. You have 24 hours to circumnavigate England's largest and most iconic lake, Lake Windermere. Take in the magnificent views across the stunning Lake District Fells from all the best viewpoints. Congratulations to Jon Daniels who on a very wet and windy day completed the 47 miles in a time of 11hrs 49 mins. Well done Jon !
The Great North Run 2026
Sunday 13th September 2026 saw the running of the 45th Great North Run, the world's biggest half marathon. Each year tens of thousands of runners make the iconic journey from the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne to the coast at South Shields, creating one of the most atmospheric race days anywhere in the UK. First held in 1981, the event has grown into a landmark celebration of North East pride, charity fundraising, and extraordinary personal achievement. With its famous start beneath the Tyne Bridge, roaring support along the route, and more than 1.4 million finishers over 45 years, the Great North Run remains an unforgettable experience for everyone who takes part.
This year Derwent Valley Trail Runners had three entries, Stefan Ward, Katie Purvis and Jordan Rumbles. On a warm day for running Stefan Ward completed the race in a time of 1:48:42, with Katie Purvis and Jordan Rumbles crossing the line together in a time of 1:56:34. Well done guys !
More details about the Great North Run can be found by clicking the button below.
Greener Miles 'The Turbine Backyard Ultra'
Saturday 18th September 2026 saw Derwent Valley Trail Runners' very own Kev Ashurst take on the Greener Miles "The Turbine Backyard Ultra". In true backyard‑ultra style, runners tackled repeated 4.1‑mile loops, heading back out each hour until they could no longer continue. Despite the windy conditions on the exposed course, Kev delivered a brilliant performance, completing 11 loops before a knee injury forced him to withdraw. A cracking effort, Kev — superb determination and grit throughout!
DVTR Reunion - 'Grey Nag' Trig
Sunday 19th September 2026 saw a Sunday social meet‑up of Derwent Valley Trail Runners members old and new. Founding members Dawn Metcalfe and Andrew Dick were reunited with Iain Craig, Paul Feeley, and Graham Pearson for a relaxed but scenic outing in the North Pennines.
The group met at Slaggyford Railway Station before heading out on an 8‑mile out and back route up to the Grey Nag trig, taking in over 1,600 feet of elevation across classic Pennine moorland. A cracking morning out with great company, big views, and a proper DVTR blend of hills and heritage finished off with bacon and sausage sandwiches in Dawn's kitchen.
'5' Valleys Ultra 2026
On Saturday 26th September 2026, DVTR members Jim Rickard and Kate Donnelly completed the 5 Valleys Ultra, covering 58.1km, 2303m of elevation gain in an impressive time of 12 hours 24 minutes and 28 seconds. Crossing the finish line together, Kate placed 685th and Jim 686th in a field of 897 runners. Well done, guys, you've smashed it again!
North East Harrier League - Thornley
Saturday 26th September 2026 saw Team DVTR kick off the cross-country season at the Thornley Cross Country course.
Representing DVTR in the men's team were Harry Tatham, Jack Siddoway, Jordan Rumbles, Stephen Ridley, Jon Daniels, Craig Ridley and Ian Bainbridge.
Representing DVTR in the women's team were Katie Purvis and Victoria Smith.
To score team points, a minimum of four runners is required, so unfortunately the women's team were unable to score team points on this occasion. However, both Katie and Victoria still picked up valuable individual points.
What a start to the season for the men's team! Following the opening race, DVTR sit 5th in Division 3, an excellent position with plenty of races still to come. We're looking forward to seeing how both teams progress throughout the season.
Well done to everyone who represented DVTR. Bring on the next one!