‘Free, fun and friendly’ parkrun will celebrate tenth anniversary this year after 400 events

PARTICIPANTS CAN WALK, RUN, JOG OR VOLUNTEER IN BEAUTIFUL PARK

BRENTWOOD parkrun is closing in on its 400th event and later this year will celebrate its tenth anniversary.

The event, which takes place in the beautiful Weald Country Park every Saturday morning at 9am, is free and open to all, whether that’s walking, jogging, running, volunteering or simply spectating and cheering on the participants.

Event directior Ann Cardus said: “Parkrun started as a simple idea. A few friends running together on a Saturday morning. It’s grown gradually into what is now a global phenomenon.

“And every Saturday people meet and run, walk and volunteer together.

“Now millions have benefitted from the physical and mental health benefits of participating in this community activity and I think Brentwood is very lucky to have a parkrun on its doorstep in the beautiful environment of Weald Park.

“I’m a strong advocate of the parkrun ethos and would recommend that everyone and anyone think about how they can be a part of the positive parkrun movement.

“I love seeing first-timers turn up each Saturday morning, whether they’re walking, jogging, running or volunteering. It’s a lovely feeling to keep building the parkrun community.”

Ann added: “It’s a 5k route that takes in the stunning lake and wonderful fauna the area has to offer, plus you might also see the odd deer.

“The first parkrun started nearly 20 years ago in the UK and the same ethos still rings true in every parkrun across the country now – a positive, welcoming and inclusive event.

“There is no time limit, and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome, and all take part for their own enjoyment, so why not visit Brentwood parkrun and join in – whatever your level.”

To take part, entrants simply register once at the parkrun website which generates a unique barcode for you.

The barcode gives you a time when you finish the event, and you’ll soon see your progress each week. If you don’t want them to scan the barcode, then that’s not a problem either.

Ann said: “Parkrun is not a race. It doesn’t matter how long it takes you to get round. It’s ok for you to walk if you don’t want to run and you don’t need to go every week.

“Everyone is welcome at parkrun and what matters is being outside, being active and having fun. Dogs are also welcome (on a short lead).”

Brentwood parkrun is entirely organised by volunteers who give up their Saturday mornings to put on the event each week.

Ann said: “Volunteering isn’t just about lending a hand; it’s about creating smiles, forging friendships, and making Saturdays unforgettable for everyone.

“Whether you’re cheering on runners, scanning barcodes or marshalling the course, every role contributes to the magic of parkrun.”

Weald Country Park is famous for its deer and Stick Man trail.

It boasts spectacular views covering more than 520 acres of woodland, wildflower meadows and open grassland.

Its visitor centre has a shop and café close to the main car park.

Every week the parkrun team grab a post-event coffee in the visitor centre, and they would love for you to join them one Saturday morning.

■ To register for Brentwood parkrun, visit parkrun.org.uk. More info can be found at parkrun.org.uk/brentwood. Follow at Brentwood parkrun on Facebook. Email the Brentwood parkrun team at brentwood@ parkrun.com.

■ Please note, there will not be a Brentwood parkrun on May 18 this year.