Shropshire businesses are asked to step up to support a charity challenge that raises money to ensure bright futures for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The Derwen College 10km Challenge sees the community come together, in Gobowen, near Oswestry, on Saturday, 5 April, for an inclusive event which celebrates fitness and fundraising.
The Challenge sees participants tackle 10km in their own way to raise money for Derwen Charity. Local businesses are asked to join as a team to run, jog, walk, or wheel a scenic route which starts and finishes at the specialist college in north Shropshire. Entry is £10 and will include a medal and goodie bag. Derwen Charity sports t-shirts will be available to buy separately at sign up and on the day.
The event offers valuable teambuilding opportunity, supports businesses’ charitable ethos, and raises money and awareness of Derwen College’s mission to enable young adults with SEND to achieve their aspirations. There are also opportunities to support with sponsorship of the event, or to help as a volunteer on the day. Supporting businesses will also have the opportunity to be included in event publicity and promotion.
Check-in for the 10km Challenge opens at 8.30am, with registration and sign in closing at 9.45am. There will be a group warm-up led by sports staff before the countdown at 10am. Dogs are welcome, and local running groups are encouraged to come along for a fun run. It’s a friendly, no-pressure event, making it the perfect introduction to a 10km distance.
Money raised will go to Derwen Charity towards accessible sports equipment for Derwen College students and clients. There is plenty of free parking, and Derwen Marketplace will be open, offering refreshments, and shopping opportunities for participants and their families.
Derwen College Community Fundraiser and Events Organiser Megan Charman is excited to welcome more businesses and families to the second 10km Challenge event.
She said: “Last year’s event raised money to build a sports track which will encourage students to take part in a daily mile. This year, we’re putting the funds towards accessible fitness equipment that all our students can use. Sport and wellbeing are an important part of each student’s curriculum, and help students to build confidence, learn new skills, meet new friends and have fun.”
She says: “With support from business and the community, we are hoping to make the 10km Challenge even bigger and better than last year. It’s a fantastic day whatever your fitness levels or predicted finish time. We all have a shared goal to get out there, enjoy some fresh air and exercise and raise money for a great cause.”
Find out how your business could support Derwen Charity by contacting Community Fundraiser and Events Organiser Meg Charman at

Could your business support Derwen College 10km Challenge?
January 27, 2025 /
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