Parkrun gets off to a popular start

Buy photos » Free weekly timed runs take place in Arrow Valley Country Park. 29012009ncr1

THE FIRST in a series of new free weekly runs took place around Arrow Valley Park on Saturday (July 14).

In total 121 people turned out for the inaugural Parkrun event which sees runners of all ages and abilities, from novices to seasoned athletes, take part in timed 5km runs.

Parkruns started in 2004 and now takes place at over 100 locations across the UK and rather than a race against other runners is designed to give the community a chance to get together, be active and run for fun or as part of a training programme.

Redditch Borough Council has supported volunteers to help set-up the event.

Coun Luke Stephens, responsible for sports and leisure on the council, said: "It’s the kind of open event that’s social as well as active, and what better setting for it than Arrow Valley Park."

Parkruns take place every Saturday from 9am. To register for a free personal barcode allowing runs to be timed, visit www.parkrun.org.uk/register or call Hayley Gwilliam, sports development officer, on hayley.gwilliam@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk or call 01527 881404.

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