Joggers across Northern Ireland prepare to celebrate 20 years of Parkrun

JOGGERS across Northern Ireland will be celebrating 20 years of the Parkrun movement this weekend, with thousands of regulars expected at local parks.

Started in London in 2004 by Paul Sinton-Hewitt, the volunteer-led 5km run quickly grew to become a global phenomenon across 22 countries, with more than 2,500 weekly events and 10 million people registered.

Open to all ages and abilities, participants try to beat their own personal best time while enjoying the community aspect.

The Waterwork - the first in Northern Ireland - Stormont and Ormeau Park are among the most popular of over 30 weekly runs in Northern Ireland.

YouTuber being sued by Carl Frampton for allegedly disclosing details of watch purchase is to defend action at trial

Cancelled Castlerock Irish class was because of threat to burn down venue

Looking ahead to the weekend, Mr Sinton-Hewitt encouraged people to enjoy the anniversary while keeping numbers at a reasonable level.

“Parkrun is a charity. The aim is to make the world happier and healthier,” he said.

Promoting the physical and mental health benefits, nearly 2,000 GP surgeries around the world are now twinned with Parkruns so they can refer patients.

Efforts to inspire more people to exercise also include Parkruns being held in 25 prisons and young offender institutions around the world, as well as 2km Parkruns for children aged four to 14.

Mr Sinton-Hewitt added that while fast runners have lots of other events where they can choose to race but parkrun offers much more than running: “It’s about getting outside, about doing some activity but most importantly it’s about being part of the community.”