It was almost a full compliment of Bats (Bere Alston Trekker's) who exchanged their shorts and trainers for posh frocks and shirts last Wednesday in order to enjoy the clubs annual presentation evening.

As the Bats like to spend their money locally where possible, the event was held at The Old Plough Inn in Bere Ferrers. 

There were four awards presented this year.  Improver of the year went to Sue Catto for her continued training efforts and improved results for this years races;  new comer (female) was presented to Jo Bourton.  Jo was a reluctant runner when she first joined the club at the beginning of the year but, like many of us, is now hooked and can be found running at various times of the day and is training hard for the Tavy Half in April.  Club athlete was a joint prize this year and was presented to Pam and Dave Adams who have run a race every month of this year including half marathons - they are a brilliant team and a real inspiration to the rest of the club. 

The final award was club member of the year - presented to Laurence Sargeant for all of his brilliant coaching and leading of runs especially during the time that club coach Dotty Allan was away with injury.  He has turned up every week and has taken some excellent runs and is a very thoughtful coach.

Club chair, Dotty Allan was presented with theatre vouchers and a lovely bouquet (in club colours) and a presentation was also made to Laurence for all his hard work. Thanks were extended to club secretary Sam Marshall for all her hard work during the year.

Bats would like to thank everyone for their continued support (family, friends, the Times and villagers) and will spend the remainder of the winter training for the Tavy half marathon, Taunton and London marathon — all to be held in April.

Bats would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Laurence Sargeant, Murray Turner and Simon Griffiths for completing their UK Athletics level two coaching award last weekend and to Dotty Allan for completing the theory for her UK Athletics level three coaching award, Dotty just has her practical session to complete in January in order to achieve the final award.

For further information about BATs please email [email protected]">[email protected]