Registration is now open for a community running event in Macclesfield that combines fitness with a treasure hunt format. The Spunch Run Talk Run event is set to take place on 9 June 2026, inviting residents of all abilities to explore the town’s urban and green spaces.
Organised by the creator of the Spunch concept, Andy Thornton, the event uses the MapRun smartphone app to track participants as they visit more than 60 checkpoints. The course includes a mix of tarmac and off-road paths, passing through local areas such as West Park, the Bollin Valley, Riverside Country Park, and green corridors in Tytherington. Runners can choose to participate for 60, 90, or 120 minutes on the day.
The event is being staged in collaboration with Run Talk Run Macclesfield, a community group focused on making physical movement and mental health support more accessible. The host venue for the day is The Picturedrome on Chestergate, a location that welcomes both children and dogs.
Entries for the event are being managed through SiEntries. Fees range from £5 for early bird entries until 19 May to £12 for those signing up on the day. Children aged 17 and under can participate for free when accompanied by a paying adult aged 21 or over. Additionally, a 25% discount is available for young adults aged 16 to 25 who are on a low or zero income by using the code Spunch25.
The event builds on the growing popularity of these navigational challenges across Cheshire and Staffordshire. In 2023, the British Orienteering Association recognised the Spunch concept with its Development Innovation of the Year Award.
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