History of the DK Mile

The Mile is a unique distance — short enough to be accessible, long enough to be a challenge. Many of us regularly travelled to South Shields for the Monthly Mile, and some even to London for the Ealing Mile. It soon became clear that we needed something local: a consistent, accurate one‑mile course in Blyth where runners could train, test themselves, and track progress.

The First Trials (February–March 2020)

The very first informal trial took place on Tuesday 25 February 2020 at 6pm. After this successful test, we began running sessions on an ad‑hoc basis, choosing days and times that suited as many people as possible while working around seasons and work patterns.

To ensure accuracy, Dave Kitching re‑measured the course three times with his measuring wheel. This confirmed that the first trial had been 5.5 metres too long. Adjustments were made, and the Blyth Mile was born.

The first official Blyth Mile using Dave’s markings took place on Sunday 8 March 2020 at 10am, and the previous trial results were adjusted by one second to account for the extra distance.

Lockdown Innovation (2020)

Just as momentum was building, the COVID‑19 pandemic hit and the country entered lockdown. The flexibility of the project became its strength. We adapted quickly, introducing:

• Socially distanced heats

• Maximum of three runners per heat

• 30‑minute gaps between waves

• Early morning and evening sessions to avoid busy periods on the seafront

These measures allowed the Mile to continue safely at a time when outdoor exercise was essential for many.

In Memory of Dave Kitching

Dave attended every session up to his passing in 2020. His dedication, enthusiasm, and precise course measurements shaped the event from the very beginning. In recognition of his contribution, the event was officially renamed the DK Mile.

Today, Dave’s original start marking remains on the kerbside at the start line — a permanent reminder of the care, precision, and passion he brought to the project. It stands as a simple but meaningful tribute to the person who helped turn a small idea into a lasting community event.

The photo included on this page shows you and Dave together at one of the very first DK Mile events, taken before later storms swept away the beach sand and before safety barriers were installed along the promenade. It captures the early spirit of the project and the foundations on which the DK Mile was built.