Start With The Why: The Story Behind the Olivers Financial Run Club

At Olivers Financial, we often talk about the importance of starting with the why.

For Director Connor, that "why" has always been clear. Having spent his previous career in professional football, he understands first-hand the positive impact that staying active can have, not just on physical health, but on mental wellbeing, confidence, discipline and everyday life.

That belief became the foundation of the Olivers Financial Run Club.

What began as a simple idea on New Year's Day 2026 has quickly grown into something much bigger than a series of 5K runs. It has become a community. A place where people from different backgrounds, abilities and experiences can come together, get moving and connect with others without any pressure around pace or performance.

The first run saw local runners come together before enjoying coffee and pastries with our friends at Adams Bakery. The response was incredible. New faces turned up, conversations were sparked and the foundations of a growing community were laid.

The momentum continued with our second event, hosted by The Market Place in Morpeth. Once again, familiar faces returned alongside first-time runners, proving that people were buying into something bigger than just a run. Following the event, runners stayed to enjoy coffee together, while WATA helped keep everyone refreshed and hydrated.

Most recently, our third event took participants on a scenic 5K trail route from Gather Morpeth. Led by the fantastic team at CTP Training, who have guided every one of our runs so far, the event showcased just how far the Run Club has come in such a short space of time. After crossing the finish line, runners were welcomed back with coffee from Northside Coffee Roasters, energy treats from The Sunday Batch, and hydration provided by Marlish.

The growth of the Run Club has been a reflection of what can happen when local businesses come together with a shared purpose. From Adams Bakery, The Market Place, Gather, The Sunday Batch, Northside Coffee Roasters, CTP Training, WATA and Marlish, every partner has played a part in creating an experience that goes beyond running.

Because this has never really been about a 5K run.

It's about creating opportunities for people to look after their wellbeing, build new relationships and feel part of a community. It's about proving that health and wealth truly do go hand in hand.

Most importantly, it's about remembering why we started in the first place.

To bring people together.

To make a positive difference.

To always start with the why.