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Waendel Weekend is biggest ever
Published Friday 1st April 11
The internationally-renowned Waendel Walk returns to Wellingborough on Friday 13, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 May.
Now in its 32nd year, the weekend of walking, cycling, swimming and entertainment is looking like being the biggest and best yet, and there's still plenty of time to sign up to take part.
The event usually attracts more than 6,500 people from around the world, but this year for the first time people have been able to pre-register online which looks like attracting more participants than ever before. The weekend kicks off with an opening ceremony and parade on the evening on Friday 13 May at 6pm with two friendship walks of 5km and 10km. On Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 May walks ranging from 5km to a marathon-distance 42km will take place.
There is free entertainment running all weekend at The Castle. On Friday night there will be a jazz band playing from 5pm to 6pm followed at 7pm by local musician Dr Busker. Saturday and Sunday afternoons will feature talented young people entertaining the crowds, and there will be a free Saturday night party with music provided by local reggae band Unity.
Sue Bull, events manager at Wellingborough Council explains more: "It's a really prestigious and popular event, and it's very safe and professionally run. It attracts serious walkers from all over the world, but also families and charity groups. We have stunning scenery in this area and the Waendel routes are a fantastic way to get out into this beautiful countryside, get some exercise, and meet new friends. The event also has a brilliant, positive effect on our local economy, with hotels, guest houses and shops all getting a big boost in trade. Now that spring has arrived and the sun is shining we've seen a really encouraging number of people pre-registering so we are expecting a larger turnout than usual."
Registering in advance to take part in any of the Waendel Weekend events is cheaper and saves long queues on the day. To register online, visit www.thecastle.org.uk/whatson
Start times for the different routes have changed slightly this year. For more information visit www.wellingborough.gov.uk/waendel or contact Sue Bull at waendel-walk@wellingborough.gov.uk