By Dave Jones

BOLTON United Harriers stalwart Dean Johnson has announced he is being forced to step away from club affairs for at least 12 months.

He has been a coach, committee member and athlete representing Harriers for 10 years.

Chronic knee problems mean Johnson will wear a knee brace for the next four months and may, further down the line, require reconstructive surgery and he is not expected to be back in action for at least a year.

Johnson completed the Ironman UK in July 2017, completing a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and a full marathon.

In the last 10 years he has worn the blue vest on numerous occasions and played his part in many successful club races.

For the last few years he has been giving up his time to coach, inspire and run with the Bolton United Harriers Endurance group.

Even over the last year, when not able to take part himself, he could be seen cycling up and down the roads encouraging and cajoling clubmates in training exercises.

Storm Dennis halted the Bolton 5k due to safety precautions on Sunday.

The club’s Gail Harrison has announced that the event will be reorganised and Bolton Harriers will host the Central Lancashire Grand Prix fixture on Sunday, March 15 at 9.30am. Entries are still open online via bookitzone.

Meanwhile, specialist fell runners Lee Petch and Andy Gallagher ventured to Mr Sparkle’s Dark ‘Un.

The exciting evening five-mile fell race sets off from the Royal Hotel and includes a couple of stiff climbs, open moorland, mud and a

dash down to the finish. In total there are 214m of ascent.

The Bolton United pair came home in 51 minutes to take 33rd and 34th positions respectively.