Parkrun, a free weekly 5km run which has become a worldwide phenomenon, has finally arrived in Frome.
The organised run was launched earlier this month at the Old Showfield, with over 150 runners taking part in the inaugural event.
And after an impressive start, organisers are hoping the event will help to improve the health and wellbeing of the Frome community, and attract tourists to the town.
“This will be fantastic for Frome,” organiser Sean Price told Frome Times. “The track around the Old Showfield is very smooth and will be sure to attract parkrun enthusiasts from all over the country. People will travel hundreds of miles to take part in different parkruns – so we expect lots of people from far and wide to come to Frome.
“But most importantly, parkrun will benefit the health and happiness of the Frome community.
“Parkrun is free and easily accessible to all. All abilities are welcome to take part – you don’t have to run around the course, you can walk around it too. Many people start at parkrun by walking, and over the weeks progress to running. It’s not a race – you are only competing with yourself. So why not take part, put down a marker, and come back the next week to try and beat it.
“The event is also an opportunity for people to socialise – the team and runners go to the cafe at the leisure centre after the run. People who may not socialise with anyone at the weekend can now come to parkrun to meet others.
“Frome is such a community focussed town – and parkrun is all about community. It is going to fit in so well with what goes on in the community.”
About the inaugural parkrun held on Saturday 17th August, Sean said, “It was brilliant! We could not have wished for a better start. The run was started by parkrun event director, Emily Denham, and Frome’s mayor, cllr Mark Dorrington representing the town council, who have been 100% behind the project. The town council financed the initial payment to parkrun to start the event and gave us permission to use the Old Showfield – they have gone above and beyond with their support.”
As Frome’s parkrun grows in popularity, the team are appealing for more volunteers to help organise the event.
“What we need now is a large pool of volunteers to help make it a sustainable,” explained Sean. “Anyone interested in volunteering should email: theoldshow field@parkrun.com.”
‘The Old Showfield parkrun’ takes place every Saturday at 9am and is open to anyone – young, old, serious runners or people just wanting to get outside and exercise. For more information and to register with parkrun, visit: www. parkrun.org.uk/theoldshowfield/
