Bradford-based Yorkshire Garden Centres (YGC) group supported the 30th year of the iconic Hollybank Eccup 10-mile road race by sponsoring finishers’ t-shirts.

Organised by Abbey Runners with its charitable partner, Hollybank Trust, the race is dubbed ‘Leeds’ most popular 10-mile road race’ on account of its rural closed roads and a scenic route around Eccup reservoir. This year’s race was run on 9th July and raised over £5,000 that will be distributed between the Hollybank Trust and the running club’s nominated 2023 charity, Zarach, which delivers beds and basics to children in poverty in Leeds.

Race Director, Simon Jones said:

“Thanks to the generosity of Yorkshire Garden Centres and our other corporate sponsors, we are able to maximise the amount of funds raised for Hollybank Trust and Zarach.

“The 30th running of the race was a great success. It was a near sell-out in both senior and junior races and there was a great atmosphere. Thanks to everyone who supported the race and the runners – the cake stall was a real hit this year and raised an unprecedented £1,200 for the charities.”

“Community support and engagement is at the heart of all four Yorkshire Garden Centres. We’re delighted that we have helped the team at Abbey Runners, who are based near our Otley Garden Centre, raise valuable funds for these great charities,” said centre manager, Andy Bradley.

Abbey Runners is the North Leeds club for runners of all abilities and all ages. Its

members take part in road running, cross-country, fell, trail and triathlon events.

The Yorkshire Garden Centres (YGC) group comprises Tong, Tingley, Otley and Bingley Garden Centres. Otley and Bingley were known as Stephen H Smith’s before they were acquired by YGC in 2022.