Well Runner Page

A Farewell to Pam 

I am relinquishing my role of Welfare Officer for EGRC, as Bill and I are leaving for pastures new along with more adventures before dementia, I just wanted to give my perspective of being a member of this running club. 
 I joined EGRC in late 2015 and predominantly ran on a Thursday night, although an older slow runner (compared to some on a Thursday) I was always made welcome and was never left behind, even when attempting Kingswood Hills, someone always looped back to make sure I got to the top!  
In January 2016 I ran my first competitive trail race (the Riverbank Rollick ) with the club.  It was a freezing cold day and I finished about forty minutes after some of our more elite runners. Nearing the finish I could hear a few shouts of “C’mon Pam”. I noticed a group of guys huddled around a tree trying to keep warm, it was Neil, Adrian and I think Chris Williams, who had waited for me to finish.  I then knew this was a club who supported all members and I felt at home.  Since then I have ran in the same races as many of you and have always felt encouraged, supported and inspired along the way.  I hope that I have promoted this same club ethos whilst marshalling at the occasional Pomphrey Park Run and the Doynton Hard Half, as well as taking sessions as a Run Leader both with Up and Coming on a Monday, the occasional Thursday sessions and Sunday Social Sessions.  
Taking on the Welfare role was my way of giving something back to the club, and although I have only been in the role for just over 12 months, it has reiterated to me what a supportive club EGRC is.  I wish Mandy Robinson the best of luck as she takes on this important role for the club and I am sure she will do a brilliant job.
I will still remain a member of EGRC until I have settled in and found another running club that will take on an “outspoken oldie”, therefore I may still be joining you on the odd challenge/championship run and you never know, when we are able to compete again I may once again be eating your dirt!!
Thank you for all your kind messages at the AGM, and the texts and messages received after, I have been overwhelmed by your good wishes.  Thank you and good luck to you all.

And Welcome to Mandy 

Hi all. I’m Mandy Robinson and I am delighted to be your new club welfare officer. I’d like to start by thanking Pam Beatie for the brilliant job she has done in the role to date and I know we will all miss her endless support and wisdom. I have big (running) shoes to fill.

As you may know from Pam the welfare officer is registered with England Athletics and their role is to assist the club in ensuring that all members feel safe, welcome and supported. They ensure that all safeguarding policies are adhered to and can be a point of contact to raise any concerns. They are also available to be a listening ear or to offer advice for any member who is struggling with any aspect of wellbeing.

I have had 35 years experience as a mental health nurse both with adults and children. My current role is as a nurse specialist for eating disorders.

I am passionate about the benefits of running on people’s psychological well being. I personally get so much from both the headspace of a solitary run and the sense of camaraderie and connection from club nights and races.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch via the club or Facebook. Or catch me at a club session once the world returns to normal!