HISTORY IN THE MAKING

In April 1989 whilst living in Denmead,
I formed a Club called Striders, to meet a pressing need!

It was small beginnings; I remember still;
An understated cup, and buckets of goodwill.

A couple dozen runners of mixed ability,
I claim myself the fittest (in all humility).

A tree which grew upon the green became the Striders brand;
Linked with a running figure and sketched by my wife's hand.

My son John chose the colours of red, green and black
Ah. such small beginnings I see now looking back.

The Striders Club, like the tree, increased in height and girth
with stronger roots and branches, the best run Club on earth!

Headed paper, Newssheet, pictures on the cover,
The logo features on the web, thus it's read all over

My running days are over; I take things at my leisure
I stand here, applaud your growth; that gives me greatest pleasure.

Charlie Burton
(poem written by Joan Burton)

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