Runners and joggers set out on event number 500
A WEEKLY community event held at a tourist spot near Burton reaches its 500th edition on Saturday.
Conkers Parkrun started on April 16, 2011, with 30 participants supported by six volunteers.
Now, more than 400 people participate in the event at the tourist attraction in Moira, with 35 volunteers.
Parkruns are held across the world. On Saturdays, participants walk, jog or run for 5k.
A spokesman for the Conkers event said: “Every Saturday at Conkers at 9am hundreds of Parkrunners of all ages, including many families, gather together to complete the 5k course in the beautiful Conkers trails. It does not matter what the ability is, everyone is welcome, and the Parkrun mantra is walk – jog – run – volunteer. At Conkers Parkrun, we are proud of the positive influence that we are having on the health and wellbeing of the local population.
“We have direct links as part of the Parkrun practice initiative with ten local doctors’ practices who are able to direct suitable patients towards Conkers Parkrun to help with a number of conditions avoiding long-term medication. “Once a month as part of our Parkrun we host 5k Your Way – move against cancer. It has been proven that exercise can benefit those who have been touched by some cancers.
“We are very proud that after analysis of the 600-plus Parkruns in the UK, Conkers has more walkers than any other event, cementing our enthusiasm to be available to all.”
To take part in Parkrun, register on the website, print off the barcode and turn up.
For further information, call Roger Cobb on 07966 537073
We are proud of the positive influence we are having on the health and wellbeing of the local population. Spokesman