The much-loved Parkrun events are set to make a return to Sheffield on 5 June as coronavirus restrictions continue to be lifted across England.
Parkrun is a free event for anyone who wants to run, jog or walk 5km in parks and open spaces. Concord, Millhouses, Hillsborough, Manor Fields, Graves and Endcliffe Park are the first venues to restart Parkrun events in Sheffield.
Greg Fell, Director of Public Health Sheffield, said: “We’ve been in discussion with Parkrun and we’re really pleased to announce it’s coming back to Sheffield.
“Sheffield wealth of parks and green spaces are exactly why we’re known as the Outdoor City, and we know that they have been a great asset to people over the past year, supporting both physical and mental health.
“What’s been really important for us is figuring out the logistics to make sure we have the right things in place to welcome back big crowds of people in a safe way. Park Run is so popular, for good reason, and we want to get it right first time.
“However, we must also encourage people to remember to follow the guidance set out by the organisers, for yourselves and out of consideration for other participants.
“Park Run are committed to being covid safe, and we’ll be guiding them along the way so that you all feel safe too.”
There have been calls for a quick return to Parkrun events to improve mental health after fears about people’s well-being during the pandemic. Keen runner Henry Clark is delighted to see the event finally return to Sheffield.
He said: “For lots of people, dragging yourself out of bed early on a Saturday morning to run may sound mad. But for so many the sense of community they feel at Parkrun is what has inspired them to get active, something we only know the importance of too well since the pandemic.
“The return of Parkrun events across Sheffield is vital for the local community to get back outdoors, on their feet and enjoying the wonderful parks in the city.
“Parkrun is a fantastic way for people to get fit and meet new people. I know so many people that have made friends for life from these events which shows it’s important for so many reasons.”