Join the new Parkrun at Clarence Park

Monday, 2 October 2023 09:30

By David Murphy

A free, fun and friendly 5k community event has been launched at Clarence Park by the Mayor of Bury and more than 250 local runners, joggers and walkers.

The event was organised by Clarence Park Runners and a team of local volunteers under the national ‘Parkrun’ brand.

Following the launch on Saturday 23 September, the Parkrun will return every Saturday at 9am. The weekly event is designed for all abilities with participants encouraged to take part for their own enjoyment and at their own pace.

The course starts from the bandstand and involves two laps of the front section of the park on tarmac. The route then crosses the lower field to complete two laps of the upper field before returning to the bandstand where toilets and refreshments will be available.

Councillor Tamoor Tariq, cabinet member for health and wellbeing who took part in the inaugural event alongside all the other participants, said: “Now that I’ve had time to recover, I want to thank the Mayor, Clarence Park Runners and everyone behind Bury’s first ever Park Run at Clarence Park. The volunteers’ efforts in organising the event and motivating the runners was truly outstanding.

“This coming Saturday the event is open to all, so please do come along to take part at your own pace whether that’s a walk, a jog or a run. No matter what your goal, or where you are on your personal fitness journey, you’re guaranteed a supportive community.”

Those interested in joining Clarence Park Parkrun for the first time are encouraged to register for free online and to get a unique scannable barcode, which allows people to participate and receive a finish time. More information, including a course description and route, can be found on the parkrun website at www.parkrun.org.uk/clarence

The Clarence Park Parkrun will be organised and delivered every week by volunteers. To help out and get involved email clarence@parkrun.com

Start-up costs for the new Parkrun have been covered by Bury’s Local Pilot which is funded through Sport England. The aim of the Local Pilot fund is to support people and communities to be more active in their lifestyle and share the benefits of being physically active.