The Bayley Mile: Wellington's historic road race draws record participation

Steeped in tradition, this event, which originated in the 1930s, saw a turnout of 160 runners, including pupils from 11 local schools and, for the first time ever, participants from the town's bustling businesses.

The Bayley Mile was revived 27 years ago to promote community spirit and healthy competition among local schools. This year's event showcased the town's vibrant spirit, with enthusiastic runners navigating the course around Wellington.

Among the highlights were the impressive performances by Chloe Stuart of Wrekin College, who set a new record in the Under 15 Girls category with a time of 5 minutes and 26.9 seconds, and Oliver Dolan of Dothill Primary, who broke records in the Under 11 Boys category with a time of 5 minutes and 32.6 seconds.

Adding to the excitement, the town's businesses joined the fray, demonstrating their support for the event and fostering camaraderie in the community. Dave Bradshaw of DB Computers led the charge, crossing the finish line as the first business participant, setting the pace for future races.

Reflecting on the event, organiser Caroline Mulvihill of Wellington Town Council expressed delight at the turnout and the spirited competition. "It is always a pleasure to see the enthusiasm of the competitors as they run round the streets of Wellington. We look forward to another successful event next year. We’d like to express our thanks to Wellington Rotary who yet again were instrumental in helping with road closures and marshalling. Without them this event couldn’t go ahead."

The Bayley Mile remains a testament to the vision of its founder, John Bayley, who championed education and community engagement. Revived in 1996 by Jim Mostyn of Wrekin College and Gary Davies, then Mayor of Wellington, the event continues to bring together schools and now businesses, as well as local adults in the ‘Open’ race, in the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie.

School Team Winners

St Lawrence Primary Under 11 Girls

St Lawrence Primary Under 11 Boys

Thomas Telford Under 13 Girls

Wrekin College Under 15 Boys

Thomas Telford Under 13 Boys

Thomas Telford Under 15 Boys

Individual Winners

Under 15 Boys Kody Gilbody Thomas Telford

Under 15 Girls Chloe Stuart Wrekin College

Under 13 Boys Charlie Stuart Wrekin College

Under 13 Girls Harriet Anslow Thomas Telford

Under 11 Boys Ollie Dolan Dothill Primary

Under 11 Girls Penny Newman Shortwood Primary

Open race

Douglas Stewart Adams Grammar School

Camilla Stewart Wenlock Olympians

Business Race

Dave Bradshaw – pictured with Mayor Cllr Paul Davis