The Phoenix Flyer is one of six races organised by Telford Athletics Club in the Sexarathon Series which take place from April to September every year.

The race in Dawley is now in it’s 29th year and is returning to the streets for the first time in over 20 years.

Race organiser, Dave Jackson, explained, “The idea for a series of races was developed a long time ago and I have always been responsible for the event in Dawley. When we first started it was a road race but with the increase in traffic we moved to the fields of Phoenix School in Dawley. Now that the school is no longer on Manor Road, we decided to try and bring it back to the streets and we are delighted that the race will start and finish on High Street in Dawley.”

Dave, who lives in Little Dawley, added, “We are hoping that people will come out and support the runners. They will all register at Phoenix Academy and then move up into High Street for the start of the race, post-race presentations will take place in the Elephant & Castle at the top of High Street.”

The fun will start at 4 pm with a roadshow in the bandstand in Dawley and runners will be in the street from 6 pm when the road will close. The race starts at 7.30 pm and the route takes in three laps of High Street, King Street, Captain Webb Drive, Heath Hill, Burton Street, Quarry Place and George Street.

The event has been supported by Great Dawley Town Council who were pleased to award a grant for £500 and officer support. Telford event company, Shropshire Events have also worked in partnership.

Town Council Chairman, Cllr Shaun Davies, commented, “It is brilliant that local people have got together to put Dawley on the map in this way. We have contacted all the local schools and hope that people will come out and watch the race take place. We are told it will be a fast race and we are looking forward to welcoming some high profile runners – this event further demonstrates the positive changes that are taking place in our town.”