Brandon Fern Hoppers
Brandon · Suffolk · England
Directory location matched to the published postcode
Brandon Fern Hoppers is a social trail-running club using Thetford Forest, with roots in a 1989 community fundraising race in Brandon.
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About Brandon Fern Hoppers
Brandon Fern Hoppers grew out of a community fundraising 10K held in Brandon, Suffolk, England, on 29 May 1989. After the race, runners proposed forming a local group, and the first meeting followed on 2 June. The club history credits Ray Obas with organising the new group; the Fern Hoppers name was adopted later after Derek Haden suggested it during a conversation at the leisure centre.
Thetford Forest gives the club much of its character. Tuesday social runs typically cover three to six miles, while Thursday sessions can include hills, pace work, sprints or time trials. Sunday outings provide another social option. Meeting points change with the season: the library car park is used for winter Tuesdays, Mayday's Fire Road 6 car park for summer Tuesdays, and Brandon Country Park for Sundays.
Visitors are encouraged to try a few sessions before joining and to contact the club first, since locations can change. The club asks runners to bring emergency contact details and wear high-visibility clothing for dark winter outings. Its website also carries the Wibbly Wobbly Log Jog event information, alongside a downloadable membership form and a general enquiry form.
Established 1989
Notable members, past and present
Ray Obas
Founding organiser
The club's history credits Obas with organising the first running group after the May 1989 fundraising race.
Derek Haden
Early member and name originator
An early participant who later suggested Fern Hoppers among the possible club names, according to Sally Dormer's account in the club history.
Club contact details
Public information from the club or its governing-body directory.
Use the club website or contact page for enquiries. A direct club email or phone number has not yet been confirmed.
Club social links
Club history and information sources
Profile reviewed 2026-10-15. Training arrangements can change; check with the club before attending.
Athletes at this club
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