Admiral : Admirable effort by staff for Admiral Swansea Bay 10k

SCORES of Admiral Group staff are putting their best feet forward for this year's Admiral Swansea Bay 10k.

With the Sunday September 16 event now fast-approaching, over 250 staff from Admiral Group are busy making their final preparations before taking part.

They'll be among thousands racing in the main event, with 1k, 3k and 5k races for juniors also taking place on the day.

Other fun includes a 100-metre mascot dash outside St Helen's that starts about 10 minutes after the main race.

Ceri Assiratti, head of People Services at Admiral Group, said: 'We're delighted to be sponsoring the Admiral Swansea Bay 10k race and fun runs for the 12th year in a row. Supporting events in our local community is very much part of the culture of Admiral, so it's great to be involved in an event like this that grows in popularity year on year.

'The number of our employees who have entered the 2018 race really highlights its importance to our staff and the local area. I'd like to take this opportunity, on behalf of everyone at Admiral, to wish all the runners the very best of luck.'

This year will be the eighth year Steven Williams-Jones from Admiral's Claims department has taken part, first running in 2007 and almost every year since.

Steven suffers from a long-term health condition and running helps keeps him fit and focussed.

He said, 'It's a great course to run - not too busy, flat and the scenery is beautiful. There's a fantastic atmosphere, it doesn't feel too competitive and everyone seems to be having a great time. The support from spectators and residents along the way is amazing too and that really helps with motivation.'

Steven is running this year with colleague Jo Griffiths also from the Claims department.

It's the fifth time Jo's taken part and for her, it's about having a personal challenge. She said, 'I really enjoy the atmosphere, and everyone is so supportive of each other, no matter your ability.

'It's a great family event and it helps the route is nice too - no big hills!' Jo's children have also competed over the years and her youngest is taking part in the 1k race this year.'

Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council's Cabinet Member for Innovation, Regeneration and Tourism, said: 'Admiral Group have been the sponsor of the annual Swansea Bay 10k for many years, helping the event continually grow in stature and profile.

'I'd encourage as many people as possible to line the route to give all participants the support they so thoroughly deserve, whether they're top class athletes or fun runners raising money for charity.'

Spectators are welcome from 10am - Junior Races will take place between 10.45am-12noon and the main 10k race will start at 1pm.