The Harriers is supported by North Norfolk District Council, Active Norfolk and local businesses Bakers & Larners and Byfords Cafe and Restaurant.
 
The coaching team is headed by Tim and Pauline Ash, who have coached and inspired a number of youngsters to international standard in sprint, middle-distance and cross-country disciplines, as well as having previously worked as head coaches at the City of Norwich Athletics Club. They will be assisted by Chicago Marathon winner and former Olympian, Paul Evans.
 
The Harriers was set up and is managed by a group of like-minded parents, many regular runners themselves, who noticed there was a large number of talented young athletes in North Norfolk with no access to qualified coaching without travelling to Norwich, Dereham or King’s Lynn.
 
“The Harriers is set-up specifically for children of eight years and over,” said spokesman and chair Paul O’Malley. “We will provide a flexible approach to training sessions – fully taking into account age and ability.
 
“We’re just getting started, so, initial training sessions are limited to running disciplines, but, in time, we will be introducing field events too, thus providing a full after-school athletics programme for local children.”
 
North Norfolk Harriers Athletics Club is in the process of becoming affiliated to England Athletics. Karl Read, Sports & Leisure Services Manager at North Norfolk District Council, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting the Harriers. We identified the need for a children’s athletics club some time ago, but, likewise, we’ve needed a group of volunteers to get it started.
 
“That’s now in place, and we can now provide support in developing what hopefully will become a high-calibre athletics club providing local kids with a platform to launch a career in sport, or at the very least, engender a fit and healthy lifestyle ahead of adulthood.”
 
Sessions are held at Sheringham High School, Holt Road, Sheringham NR26 8ND, on Wednesdays, year round, from 6 – 7 pm; children should plan to arrive from 5.45 pm. Annual membership is £25 while a £2 coaching fee is charged per session attended. The first two week’s attendance is offered free-of-charge to allow for a “settling-in” period.
 
www.theharriers.com