The Co-operative Motor Group Backs Hothfield Runners

Runners at Hothfield Junior School in Silsden have just taken delivery of a new bright red running kit - a gift from their local motor group.

The 8 to 11 year olds are working hard to maintain the school's excellent reputation for producing strong young runners, frequently reaching the medal stages at inter-school races and championships.

But the cash-strapped running club, led by Hothfield staff Elisa Woffenden, Mike Carey and David Hird, was desperately in need of new kit.

An appeal to The Co-operative Motor Group Renault Keighley didn't fall on deaf ears however, and this week the Skipton Road dealership donated £500 to buy the young runners smart new The Co-operative Motor Group branded vests and shorts.

Miss Woffenden said: "We are very grateful to The Co-operative Motor Group for their generosity. The donation was enough to pay for 25 running strips, which means our competition runners now really look the part and their supporters are better able to pick them out in races".

"In fact they look so good that all the other members of the 50 strong running club want new kit as well - so if any other local businesses or individuals feel able to help us out we would be absolutely delighted".

Hothfield's running team came second last year in the Bradford Schools Championship and is already doing well in the early stages of this year's competition. After just two races, the boys' team is holding on to its fabulous second place spot in cross country, while the girls gained a super cross country bronze.

The Co-operative Motor Group Motor Group Dealer Principle Chris Terry said: "We are committed to investing in our local community and, having heard that the school was doing so well with its running club, we were delighted to be able to help".

"It's great to have our logo on the vests of these excellent young athletes. Although I suppose if they run too fast people might not be able to make it out!"

The Co-operative Motor Group is part of The Co-operative Group and has 21 dealerships across Yorkshire, Lancashire and the Midlands.