A WINCHESTER runner became one of the only females in the world to hit a prestigious milestone on Saturday.

Sarah Aldridge crossed the finish line to mark her 500th parkrun last Saturday - 250 of which have been completed at North Walls Recreation Ground.

The Hampshire County Council finance assistant attended her first parkrun in January 2009 whilst in Leeds, meaning she has achieved the number in ten years, which organisers believe to be a record.

Sarah said: “I like parkrun because, whilst I am not a natural runner, I have always felt included at the events.

“There is always a great sense of community that builds up where people are friendly and encouraging.

“I was so impressed by the huge turnout on Saturday especially as the weather was poor, and I felt like a celebrity as I was cheered to the finish line.”

The Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Frank Pearson, met Sarah at the startline to present her with a special tabard.

She is only the 11th lady in the world to reach the number, and is around 20 years younger than the other ten.

Sarah added: “Since starting parkrun in 2009 I have already done many longer races.

“This year, I plan to run the London Marathon in April, followed by Race to the King, a two-day ultra marathon finishing at Winchester Cathedral at the end of June.”

At the same event, regular participant Matt Grote completed his 250th parkrun with his 12-year old son Tom, who took part for the 100th time.

The pair were also both presented with a tabard from the Mayor.

Despite poor weather, over 400 parkrunners joined to celebrate Sarah’s achievement.