BD5 Information for Members

21 August 2026 - By Will Radley

The BD5 will take place on Monday 28 December 2026, the Boxing Day bank holiday. It remains one of the most important events in the club calendar, raising vital funds that help support club activities throughout the year, including social runs, the NESS cross-country league, the Essex League and relay championship races.

The race relies on the support of club members to run safely and smoothly. A range of volunteer roles are available, so if you can spare a few hours, please sign up using the form on the club website. The link is also available in the Featured section of our Facebook group.

Can I run the BD5 if I’m a member?

Yes, a maximum of 10 Witham Running Club members may take part. To be considered for one of these places, you must:

1. Complete the volunteer sign-up form by 31 October.
2. Answer Yes to the question, “Would you like to be considered to run the BD5?”
3. Select Parking or Setup as your volunteer role.
4. Remain after the race to help with the clear-up.

Member places will only be offered once we know there are enough volunteers to deliver the race safely. For this reason, members wishing to run will not be eligible for the early-bird entry price.

Eligible members will be placed in order according to when their volunteer form was submitted. Places will be offered to the first 10 members on that list. If someone no longer wishes or is unable to run, their place will be offered to the next eligible member.

Once you have accepted your place, you will need to enter and pay for the race in the usual way.

These arrangements apply to both first-claim and second-claim members.

How else can I support the race?

If you cannot volunteer on the day, you can still help by:

• Promoting the race at work or through local groups
• Displaying the BD5 banner or distributing leaflets at local parkruns
• Sharing our social media posts
• Introducing us to a local business that may be interested in sponsoring the race

If you would like leaflets or the banner, please get in touch. Please always obtain permission from the event team before promoting the race at a parkrun.

When will entries open?

Online entries will open on 1 September.

This year, the committee has introduced tiered pricing, with entry fees gradually increasing as race day approaches. Entering early will therefore secure the best price.

Thank you to every member who supports the BD5 and the club’s other events throughout the year. If you have any questions or would like to take a more active role in organising future events, please get in touch.

BD5 Committee

Will — Race Director

Leanne — Deputy Race Director