Darlington 10k runners left disappointed by medal shortage

The annual race took attracted more than 3,000 runners on Sunday (August 2), taking on two laps of a 5k route through the town.

However, many runners were left disappointed, saying they did not receive a finisher’s medal after crossing the line as organisers had ran out.

Darlington Council’s website states that “anyone who completes the 2026 Darlington 10k will receive a medal and a T-shirt”.

The Northern Echo has contacted the council for comment.

It is currently unclear how many runners were affected by the shortage, although those finishing around the one-hour mark are among those saying they did not receive one.

The council confirmed on Saturday (August 1) that more than 3,000 people had signed up for the race, describing the figure as “one of the highest sign-up rates the race has seen”.

Several took to social media to express their frustration.

One runner took to Facebook to express their disappointment – claiming they were told there were no medals remaining when they reached the finish lie, and that they were made to sign a sheet so one could be posted out at a later date.

Despite the disappointment, many runners praised the atmosphere, sharing photos and congratulating fellow competitors on completing the course.