Tewkesbury Running Club have been putting their best feet forward for close on 40 years.

Formed in 1983, the club boast more than 100 members and they have certainly contributed a lot to the community over the years.

And while providing people with an opportunity to run for fun has obviously been very beneficial for many, the club want to give even more as they look to encourage the next generation of runners in the community.

So much so that in a new initiative, they set aside £1,000 and invited local schools to apply for a grant of up to £250 each to help fund running equipment for their school or other interesting uses.

And much to their delight, all the money has been allocated.

Both Tewkesbury Primary School and John Moore Primary School were set to receive - or already have received - their cheque to fund new vests and other equipment for their cross-country teams.

Tewkesbury Running Club member Nick Matthews, who is one of the driving forces behind the new initiative, said: “The Tewkesbury inter-school cross-country championship sees years 4 to 6 children taking part in a series of events each year which are hugely popular and a great gateway into running.”

Carrant Brook Junior School were also set to receive a grant for £250.

“The grant in this case is to help a group of 7 to 11 year old children who require emotional support and additional nurturing,” said Matthews. “The money will be used towards the funding of child-led workshops with a local artist to create willow sculptures for the school.”

Northway Infant School will also be presented with a cheque for £250.

“Northway Infant School would like to put the money towards the purchase of at least eight balance bikes for their early years foundation stage," explained Matthews.

"This will enable them to run balanceability training on site as well as extra sessions during free active time and after-school clubs.”

Matthews, who is a pupil parent at Tewkesbury Primary School, presented the cheque to the school at the end of last week along with former pupil and fellow Tewkesbury Running Club member Carley Merriman.   

Tewkesbury Running Club meet every Monday (6.30pm) and Wednesday (6.45pm) at Morrisons. All abilities from-first timers to speedsters are welcome and the focus is on making running a sociable and enjoyable past-time.

New members are always welcome and the club also have a Couch to 5k programme to nurture those new to the sport. For more information, visit www.tewkesburyrunningclub.com/join-us.