Daughter seeks mum's Christmas pudding race glory

A former professional ballet dancer says she is aiming to emulate her mum's success in an annual pudding race.

Joanne Stanfield was the fastest woman to complete the 10k in 2020 in Cheddleton, Staffordshire, receiving the coveted trophy and a customary Christmas pudding, which all entrants get when they finish.

This year, her daughter Georgia is hopeful she can also be the first woman to cross the finish line.

"It'd be nice to have both our names on the trophy," smiled Ms Stanfield, who admitted she had also developed a taste for the yuletide treat.

The village's pudding race is entering its 41st year having been initially spearheaded by local running star Stan Winterton.

He ran the Potters Marathon for Cancer Research in 1983 and thought it would be unfair to ask the same people to sponsor him on a second run.

Instead, he believed he could raise more money by organising an event in his home village of Cheddleton.

"I'm very proud of it to be honest," he said.

"I'm quite pleased that we've been able to keep it going."

The race attracts more than 400 runners every year and each one is rewarded with the festive pudding.

"The kids love it," Mr Winterton added, "it all adds to the local atmosphere."

Ken Rushton, chairman of North Staffordshire Road Runners Association, agreed the event helped to get people in the festive spirit.

"It's the highlight of the races in Staffordshire," he claimed, "you won't find a race with a better atmosphere."

Runners and spectators are invited to Cheddleton on Saturday from 14:00 GMT.

Drivers should be aware that some of the roads will be closed for the day around the village, organisers added.