Crisp blue skies greeted more than 2,300 elite and fun runners, and 500 youngsters who took part in the ‘mini-miler’, as they filled the streets of Cwmafan in Port Talbot for the 41st Richard Burton 10k.

The road race, which is regarded locally as ‘a race like no other’ remembers three boys from Cwmavon who tragically lost their lives after their car came off the road in Fabian Way in 1981. Each year since the tragedy thousands of people – young and old – come together in memory of the boys and to raise money for the local community. The event is expecting to raise in excess of £50,000 as donations continue to pour in. 

The gruelling race attracted many Tata Steel runners and some local celebrities - Stephen Kinnock MP took part as did Captain Beany – and David Rees MS, Karen Jones (Neath Port Talbot Council) and many community heroes lined the streets to cheer on the runners raising money for causes close to their hearts.

84 years separated the oldest and youngest runners, with the oldest 86 years young and the youngest just two. The number 41 was appropriately reserved for a former steelworker Neil Samuels, who can proudly boast completing every single race since its inception!

Another steelworker, Shift Manager Stuart Phillips set out to run the route as many times as possible in a 24-hour period, and managed it a staggering 14 times - that's 140km - all in aid of Cystic Fibrosis.

Race Director and Tata Steel worker, Shaun Tobin, said: “Once again the support we received on the day was simply phenomenal.
“Each year we see people gather in their thousands, not just from the Neath Port Talbot community but from far and wide, to run through the streets of the Afan Valley to raise money for their chosen charities. I’m always blown away by the support and this year was no exception.

“I never tire of saying that every single penny raised goes back into the community and to grassroot charities.

“A massive thank you to everyone who took part, for the continuous support from our community, and from our sponsors – Tata Steel & Runtech.”

Congratulations to all those who took part as well as those who came along to show their support.  

For some the race continues….between them three local lads are attempting to run the 10k route every day for a year!