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Tattenhall Runners was formed in 1982, just a year after the first London Marathon and at a time when running was enjoying a boom in popularity. By January of the following year it was well established, as a section of an existing sports club in the village – Tattenhall Recreation Club – and had affiliated to the Amateur Athletic Association, which was then the national governing body. 1983 was also marked by the arrival at the club of a sprightly young man named Trevor Gilbertson who has been a stalwart member ever since (as well as serving as treasurer and coach) and provides a connection back to those early days.

Back then the clubhouse was not much more than a cricket pavilion and had no central heating. But it did have a simple bar for post-training refreshments, which members took turns to staff. In the winter the heating was provided by a couple of paraffin heaters and the cosy atmosphere of the bar encouraged the kind of friendly mingling that became a feature of the club. Birthdays were commonly celebrated with a weekend “pub run” that would involve re-hydration at a number of local hostelries and a bit of running between them. Today you will regularly find a similar atmosphere in the Tattenhall Runners gazebo at club races, although the conviviality is fuelled by tea and cakes rather than alcohol!

In 1984 the Borders League was created to provide regular road-running competition for clubs in this area and the first ever race in the league was hosted by Tattenhall. Our club has remained a committed participant in the Borders League and has won numerous individual and team awards over the years. In addition to road-running, cross-country and fell running have also become established disciplines in which the club competes. Furthermore, the range of running-related activities in which members participate has grown to include: 24 hour challenges, mountain marathons, ultra distance & endurance events, adventure and novelty races, duathlons and triathlons. So these days don’t be surprised to see a group of Tattenhall Runners out on their bikes riding in a local sportive!