It was a hundred years ago next month that workers at Horwich Loco Workers set up a running club.

Today, the club is known as the Horwich RMI Harriers with members gearing up to celebrate their landmark anniversary.

What was then called the Railway Athletic Association was formed by a group of athletics enthusiasts, who trained at the local cricket pitch as their athletes couldn’t afford the expense of travelling to fixtures. 

The club continues to go from strength to strength. 

The Bolton News: The Harriers running to the Houses of Parliament to try to save Horwich Loco Works 1983The Harriers running to the Houses of Parliament to try to save Horwich Loco Works 1983

Committee member David Barnes said: "We have a strong youth setup, as well as a lot of really good adults who win championships. 

"We also have a lot of beginner runners. We pride ourselves on a strong range across the spectrum of running. 

"We have got a very strong junior section, we have a waiting list for it.

"We're a bit of a mix. An unusual mix for athletic clubs, with fell running, cross country, but we also have a strong track presence." 

The Bolton News: Trevor Williams, Sophie Walton and chairman Glynne LeverTrevor Williams, Sophie Walton and chairman Glynne Lever

The club also boasts runners who compete in high-ranking events. 

David said: "Runner Sophie Walton competed in the World Athletics U20 Championships, and she has come right through the ranks. 

"The women's winner of last year's Ironman, Erica Booth, is a club member - she went on to compete in the world championships in Hawaii." 

Horwich Harriers will hold a gala dinner on May 17 to mark the anniversary. 

The Bolton News: Harriers stalwarts Jack Prescott & Harold MaughamHarriers stalwarts Jack Prescott & Harold Maugham (Image: Horwich Heritage)

David said: "Three hundred people will be at the Premier Suite at Bolton Wanderers' stadium, that's our big event we are building up to. 

"We have nominated a charity to fundraise for as part of it, Cardiac Risk in the Young." 

On the night there will be a three-course dinner, entertainment, a guest speaker, a DJ and a raffle. 

To book tickets and tables, visit: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/bolton/premier-suite-at-bwfc/horwich-rmi-harriers-and-athletics-club-centenary-celebration-dinner/e-zqerak

The Bolton News: Horwich Harriers and the Rivington Pike Race in 1936Horwich Harriers and the Rivington Pike Race in 1936 (Image: Horwich Heritage)

An exhibition on the history of the group is also currently in place at the Horwich Heritage Centre, and will be until May 16

David said: "The exhibition is trying to draw together history and looking forward to hopefully another 100 years." 

He thanked the volunteers at Horwich Heritage for their help in organising and running the exhibition.