The Wallingford Thames Run is set to make a comeback this summer. after four years away.

The 5k and 10k run raises funds for Crowmarsh Gifford Primary School, but due to the pandemic it has not been held since May 2019.

The event will makes its return on June 9, with the run starting at 9.30am.

The event is the Crowmarsh Gifford Primary School Parent Teacher Association's (PTA) main fundraiser.

A share of the proceeds will go to Style Acre, a Crowmarsh-based charity that improves the lives of Oxfordshire people with learning disabilities and autism.

The Wallingford Thames Run route introduces a multi-terrain course.

The race begins from the school premises, continues through Crowmarsh, along the Thames banks into Wallingford town centre and over Wallingford Bridge, returning to Crowmarsh and finishing at the school.

This year a new team award will be presented to the fastest team. 

That means that the running club or running collective whose fastest three runners have the lowest combined time will walk away with the inaugural Team Trophy.

As a principal sponsor, Larkmead, the independent veterinary specialists, have extended their support to the 2024 Wallingford Thames Run.

They have branches in various locations, including Didcot, Cholsey, Great Western Park, Benson and Sutton Courtenay.

Further backing is provided by several independent local running shops to sizeable supermarkets.

The highlights of the day will include events and a school fete.

School children will also participate in a Colour Run just after the main race.

Vania Eaglen, headteacher of Crowmarsh Gifford Primary School said: "I'm delighted that we have been able to bring the Wallingford Thames Run back to the running calendar.

"Parents and community members have spoken highly of this event and have been urging us to bring this much-loved event back.

"So it’s with great joy that I can now tell them that the 2024 race will go ahead.

"The Pupil School Council has asked for the school toilets to be refurbished, as well as several outdoor areas.

"The money raised will help us to fulfil the children’s requests."

Josie Brettell, race Director and Crowmarsh Gifford Primary School PTA member, said: "The PTA has been trying to get the Wallingford Thames Run back onto the calendar for several years.

"Now, finally, we’ve managed to mobilise enough support to restore the event to its rightful place."

Entry is now open and will cost £22 for the 10k and £15 for the 5k, with a £2 discount for England Athletics-registered running club members.