Thames Valley Harriers appoints new Chair, plans funding programme

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Thames Valley Harriers (TVH), National Athletics League winner in four of the past five seasons, has appointed Andrew Mitchell as its new Chairman as TVH plans a significant funding programme in its west London stadium. 

TVH’s strong pathway from grassroots sport to top competition has achieved unprecedented success in recent seasons. Four TVH athletes represented Team GB at the World Indoor Championships just held in Torun, Poland, including pole vaulter Molly Caudery, who won her second World Indoor gold medal.

With generous funding from the King Charles III Coronation Youth Fund, Hammersmith and Fulham Council and Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust, the running track is due to be relaid this summer at TVH’s Linford Christie Stadium near HS2’s new Old Oak Common station, an area where wider public investment is fostering significant economic regeneration.

The relaid track will provide the platform for TVH to seek new funding to help further revitalise the stadium’s facilities, supporting wider community participation in athletics and accompanying health and fitness benefits. TVH’s thriving Junior, Senior and Masters teams across track and field, road running and cross country, in many cases attracts runners from Wormwood Scrubs parkrun right on the club’s doorstep.

Andrew, a public relations professional who has run for England in international Masters competitions, takes over from outgoing Chair Andrea Broughton.

Andrew Mitchell, Thames Valley Harriers chairman, said:

“Thames Valley Harriers’ athletes have been performing superbly in recent seasons and I’m excited to have the chance to build on this success. With a new running track to put a fresh spring in our step and the surrounding community poised to benefit from HS2’s new superstation, it’s the right time for TVH to seek funding for the facilities that can enable our runners, jumpers and throwers to thrive for years ahead.” 

“Team spirit among TVH’s athletes, coaches, team managers and volunteers is the secret sauce that has fuelled the club’s success. We’ll continue to welcome members of all ages to enjoy the thrill of training and competing together to get the best out of themselves.”