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Oct
Harrogate and Ripon running clubs' special event for women's safety
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Harrogate and Ripon running clubs are hosting a special event to highlight the importance of women feeling safe on our streets at any time of day.
The one-off social and inclusive run on October 27 – just after the clocks go back – will emphasise the challenges many women face when wanting to be active outdoors after dark.
The Harrogate Harriers are for the first time joining the national movement Let’s Lift the Curfew, organised by This Girl Can and England Athletics, inviting all members and their female friends to join at 7pm on the day, meeting at Harrogate Sports and Fitness Club, on Hookstone Wood Road.
Meanwhile, the Ripon Runners will be taking part for the second year, meeting at 6.30pm at Ripon Rugby Club.
People are encouraged to wear high-vis, headtorches, fairy lights, and bright clothing to quite literally light up their local streets, parks and communities as Let's Lift the Curfew is all about making a visible statement of support.
In a social media post, Harrogate Harriers said:
Research shows that a staggering 72% of women alter their outdoor exercise routines due to safety fears—effectively creating an unwanted winter "curfew". We believe everyone should feel safe to run, walk, or jog on our streets at any time of day. Women’s safety is a community responsibility, and as a club, we are running together to change this.
Let’s Lift the Curfew launched in 2023 and has evolved into a national movement with an annual campaign moment when the clocks go back. Now in its third year, the campaign seeks to amplify women’s stories, promote allyship and encourage wider cultural awareness of the issues that prevent many from being active outdoors during the autumn and winter — from poor lighting to fear of harassment.
Sarah Jones, membership secretary at Ripon Runners, said:
If like me you’ve ever felt nervous about running in the dark, or simply want to support a worthy cause, then do come along and join us.
As women actually make up more than half of our club membership, this cause is very close to our hearts – and after the success of last year’s night run, we had no hesitation in supporting Let’s Lift the Curfew again. The run is open to all genders and abilities, and you’ll be very warmly welcomed.
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