Nearly 300 runners took part in the 17th annual Blacksticks Blue 10K in Whitechapel this weekend, with competitors racing not just for a personal best… but for a wedge of our Blacksticks Blue. A total of 277 runners entered this year’s event, which has become a firm fixture in the Lancashire running calendar.

This year’s race saw a new course record set by returning champion Rob Webb, who crossed the finish line in 34:07, while Ellie Kenyon was the first female runner home in 42:57. The event also welcomed a strong turnout from Burnden Road Runners, who selected the Blacksticks 10K as its final club championship event of the season.

There were sunny, but not too hot, conditions around Whitechapel’s scenic and challenging course, and all 10K finishers received a Blacksticks Blue cheese wedge. Children taking part in the 1K race were rewarded with a wedge of our Mrs Butler’s Lancashire cheese. Importantly, the race also raises vital funds for the Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) project at the village hall and Whitechapel School.

Our very own fourth-generation owner, Matthew Hall, said, “We’re really proud that 17 years on, the Blacksticks Blue 10K is still attracting runners from across Lancashire and beyond. There are more road races in the region than ever now, so the fact people continue to come back to us year after year is really special. While our course is known for its beautiful surrounds, it is also known for being a challenging 10K route. I’d like to think the chance to race for a wedge of Blacksticks Blue at the end gives that little bit of extra motivation for the runners!”

Matthew ran the 1K race with his daughter, Winifred, on his shoulders! He adds, "I personally really look forward to this event, it’s a chance to pause and connect with our community and celebrate what we can achieve when we come together."

We can already confirm that next year’s Blacksticks Blue 10K will take place on Sunday, 9 May 2027, continuing our tradition of gathering on the second Sunday in May each year.