DESPITE the storms and torrential rain during the early hours, 260 local people turned out to take part in the first Winchester parkrun for 70 weeks.

Covid lockdown restrictions meant that parkruns throughout the UK had been cancelled since March 14 2020.

Event director David Watson was delighted that arrangements for the safe return of this popular community-based fitness event went so well. He gave special thanks to the 40 volunteers who helped to make sure that the event ran smoothly.

These 5km parkrun events are open to everyone; they are free, safe and easy to take part in. There are more than 500 parkruns throughout the UK. They take place every Saturday morning at 9am. The Winchester course is at the North Walls Recreation Ground.

The organisers are keen to emphasise that these are not ‘races’ - they are ‘runs’! Participants do like to set their personal targets, though. Walkers, and those wanting to participate with pushchairs and dogs (on leads), are also welcome.

Not all volunteers are runners - they simply like the opportunity to become involved in this local community event. The Winchester parkrun is supported by Winchester City Council.

There will not be a Winchester parkrun on Saturday August 7 because the Cheese and Chilli Festival will be taking place at North Walls.