Newburn Running Club is supported by qualified run leaders ("LiRFs") and coaches ("CiRFs") who hold nationally recognised England Athletics coaching qualifications.  

Our Ethos 

At Newburn RC, we believe great coaching is built on: 

• Inclusivity — sessions for every pace and experience level 
• Support — constant encouragement and teamwork 
• Safety — qualified leaders, planned routes and best practice 
• Progression — structured training that helps members improve 
• Enjoyment — because running should always feel rewarding 

Our Coaches

A "Coach in Running Fitness" (CIRF) is a fully qualified running coach trained to design, deliver and evaluate structured running programmes for individuals and groups. A CiRF can: 

• Write periodised training plans for all distances (5k–Ultra) 
• Deliver advanced coaching sessions 
• Assess running form, technique and performance 
• Support runners with injury-prevention and strength guidance 
• Work with runners of all abilities, including competitive athletes 
• Oversee the coaching structure of the club 

CiRFs have deeper technical knowledge of physiology, technique, progressive training cycles and performance development. 

Head Coach – Keith Batey 

Keith leads our club’s coaching vision, designing structured, purposeful sessions for all abilities. With a wealth of experience, he helps runners improve safely, confidently and consistently. 

Coach – Dionne Milburn 

Dionne brings valuable coaching expertise to the club, supporting members across structured training sessions and helping runners of all levels develop strength, confidence and resilience. 

Coach -Jemma Harker

Jemma is a newly qualified Coach with a passion for helping others reach their goals.

Coach Coordinator – Jason Meecham 

Jason oversees session planning and ensures our coaching team delivers inclusive, high-quality training each week. His focus is on progression, safety and enjoyment for all members. Jason is also one of our qualified LiRFs.

Our Run Leaders

A "Leader in Running Fitness" (LiRF) is qualified to lead safe, inclusive group runs under the guidance of the club’s coaching structure. A LiRF can: 

• Deliver sessions designed by a CiRF or Coach Coordinator 
• Lead warm-ups, cool-downs and group runs 
• Set appropriate paces for mixed-ability groups 
• Support new runners and those building confidence 
• Ensure sessions are safe and enjoyable 
• Uphold the club’s “no one left behind” ethos 

LiRFs are essential to the smooth running of club nights and help make sessions welcoming and well-organised. They ensure all sessions are safe, enjoyable and welcoming — with a firm commitment to our “no one left behind” ethos. 

Our LiRFs are:

• Wendy Carr
• Ian Bell 
• Jason Meecham 
• Chris Ashburn 
• Stuart Moor 
• Sarah Shaw 
• Zoe Ritson 
• Anna Brayson
• Dom Phipps 

They support pacing, offer friendly guidance and help create the positive atmosphere our club is known for. 

How CiRFs & LiRFs Work Together 

At Newburn RC, our coaching system works collaboratively: 

• CiRFs design structured, progressive training tailored to the needs of the club 
• LiRFs help deliver those sessions safely and effectively 

Together they ensure every runner — from beginners to experiened athletes — receives appropriate guidance, pacing and support 

This approach keeps our sessions consistent, inclusive and beneficial for all abilities. 

Whether you’re new to running, returning after time out, or training for a marathon, our coaching team is here to help you reach your goals.