Challenge lies ahead (From Malvern Gazette)

Challenge lies ahead

10:20am Thursday 2nd February 2012 in News

A CHAMPION effort showed what lies in store when the Bromyard Hop Festival returns later this year.

The winning teams from last year’s hop pocket race – the ladies’ team from Wye Valley Brewery and the men’s team from Legges of Bromyard – took to the streets on Thursday as part of the official launch ahead of its second running on Saturday, September 1.

Staff from Halo Leisure at the Bromyard Centre were on hand to give fitness tips for prospective competitors, so they can get into peak condition.

Festival chairman Ian Raven said changes to the course would make for a tougher but more exciting challenge.

“Runners will start in the Market Square, go up Broad Street and High Street to the leisure centre, then turn and come back to the starting point.

“We@re also adding an obstacle half-way along the course, so the whole thing will be even tougher for the runners as they carry a full hop pocket weighing 50kg.

“The race will be even more exciting for spectators and will spread visitors right through the town.”

Other attractions will include a parade of vintage and horsedrawn vehicles, an old-time funfair on the Town Green, a performance of a community play about hop-picking, archive film and historic displays, live music and a craft fair.

For more information, go to bromyardhopfestival.co.uk.