Sair Heidie new year run to make welcome return

IT will soon be time to blow away those new year cobwebs when the Buckie Sair Heidie run makes it welcome return.

Runners will be hitting the streets for new year's day fun run for the first time in three years thanks to Covid pandemic restrictions. However, that is all in the past as the event invites runners of all abilities to come along and help raise cash for local charity Coastal Creations.

The approximately 4.5 mile walk/run covers part of the route used by the Buckie 10k run, with runners starting outside the Episcopal Church Hall before heading out to Strathlene and the returning via Rathven and finishing back at the hall.

Organiser Phill Thompson said: “The Sair Heidie has become a Buckie tradition over the years, with many regulars turning up to take part, and we are hoping that despite the three year absence we can still attract local folk to our event.

"There is an age limit of 16 plus due to the run being held on open roads, as well as runners we are keen to attract and welcome local walkers and groups, as they can start early. The run is very much a social event with a chance to have a blether both before and after the race in the church hall, with a cup of tea and a piece also provided afterwards.

"Any food contributions on the day would be much appreciated."

Registration begins at 10.15am in the church hall, with walkers setting off at 10.20am and runners at 11am. The event, as ever, is being kept quite simple particularly as illness and other commitments have limited the number of regular volunteers. However, Buckie resident Kathleen Macleod, owner of The Little Lunch Box in Elgin, has provided support in the form of prizes for the first three male and females and a medal for all finishers.

Entry costs £5, with raffles available at £1 per strip. Raffle donations will be most welcome, as will those to increase the prize list.

The organisers are keen to hear from people willing to help out on the day in a number of roles, especially at registration and also riding the lead bike to guide runners along the route. Visit the Sair Heidie Facebook page to learn more.

Coastal Creations supports vulnerable adults in the area – find out more about their work at the group's Facebook page.

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