BLACKBURN Harriers have now run up 100 years of history.

And to mark the milestone, chairman Tony Woods is taking a step back through time to compile a book on the club’s history.

The Harriers were formed in 1910, although the sport of athletics existed well before that, deriving from the paper chases of the late 1830s, through to the meetings at Alexandra Meadows, and at Cob Wall in the 1870s. There were groups and packs of runners in the Blackburn district at this time in the later 1800s and early 1900s, some based in the Revidge area, before the Harriers were formed.

Tony has sent Looking Back this photograph of a group of runners, which he wants to use in his book, but needs some help to identify it.

He believes it could show one of these local running packs, a very early Harriers club, perhaps the Revidge Runners, or a group based at East Lancs Cricket Club, or even the YMCA.

The group’s manager, or trainer, can be seen at the side, with his billycock, and it may have been taken around 1900, or even earlier.

Said Tony: “The photo could have been taken outside a pub, possibly the Corporation Arms, a sports ground, or perhaps at a bowling green or cricket pitch.You can see the grass and mats the athletes are resting on.

“Can anybody help identify this for me? Does anyone recognise the group of athletes, or any individuals, or where it may have been taken?

“I am hoping Looking Back readers may be able to give me some vital information.”

The book will be on sale in October when the Harriers celebrate their centenary at Blackburn Rovers on October 15 with a dinner.

Any Harriers’ history can be sent to Tony on 01254 703245, or email run14@btinternet.com