Short History

First held in 1982 starting from Burslem, the Potteries Marathon was soon moved to Trentham Gardens, and was widely regarded to have one of the best finishes in the world.

Although the race took place over a hilly course, it was very popular with runners and was voted the ‘Best race in Britain’ three times by readers of Running Magazine.

One of the early winners was Ian Thompson who had previously won the European and Commonwealth marathons. Another popular winner over subsequent years was Mark Roberts, winning a record seven times.

The last race was held in 2004, but after dwindling numbers and increasing costs it was decided to change to a half marathon to gain more interest.

As Trentham Gardens was no longer a suitable start point it was relocated to Hanley Town Centre and renamed the ‘Potters ‘Arf.’ Since the initial ‘Arf marathon in 2005 the race has grown in popularity with runners and is now attracting fantastic spectator support associated with full marathons. This year we invite you to help us celebrate the 31st race held in the Potteries.

Entries close on Friday 8th June 2012. Unfortunately no entries can be accepted after this date or on Race Day.

About The Principle Sponsor

Hanley Economic Building Society

We celebrated our 150th anniversary on 21st October 2004. Our aim is to combine the traditions and roots of a mature organisation with the verve and efficiency of a modern business, by operating as a successful mutual organisation with high quality customer service at its core. By tailoring our service to individual customer needs we can demonstrate the value of a choice proposition. We can search and advise on mortgages from over 20 lenders as well as on The Hanley’s own mortgage range. We have branches located across Staffordshire in Biddulph, Festival Park - Hanley, Longton, Newcastle, Stone and Hanley City Centre. Supporting local events like The Potters 'Arf marathon is at the heart of what we do and this is our 6th consecutive year of sponsorship.

About the Principle Supporters

Asics

ASICS has been developing sports shoes and apparel for more than 50 years now. In this time innovation has been the key to their introduction of design philosophies that have revolutionised the world of sports.

Afford Rent-A-Car

Tony Moore and Tony Dobson launched Afford Rent a Car in 1981, after being made redundant from a large car franchise. Thirty years on Afford Rent a Car has achieved a magnificent status within Staffordshire and Cheshire regions. The range of vehicles includes cars, estates, mpv’s, light commercials and minibuses.

We take great pride in servicing retail and corporate business from our Fenton, Hartshill, Crewe and Stafford branches. Our vehicles are replaced frequently ensuring that our customers are only provided with quality vehicles, which are maintained to the highest standards, which are backed with our comprehensive 24 hour service.

As members of the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association combined with our affiliation with SIXT Rent a Car and United Rental Systems; Afford Rent a Car are constantly subject to quality assurance assessments.

In addition we take pride in supporting our local communities by sponsoring various major local and national sporting events. We are now in our 7th year of sponsorship with the Potteries marathon.

Jack Design Ltd

Jack is a creative-led graphic design consultancy based in North Staffordshire, in the heart of the Midlands. We work with organisations large and small across the country and in a wide range of sectors. We’re committed to providing a friendly, flexible service and deliver everything from graphic design and copywriting to art direction and web production. We also offer strategic advice on how to develop your brand and the practical skills and experience to make it happen.