Efforts are underway to establish a parkrun event in Maryport.
The bid to launch the popular 5km event is being headed up by Allerdale Borough Council as part of its wider Maryport regeneration plans.
All parkrun events are free and held weekly every Saturday morning. The parkrun movement has spread across five continents and events are held in more than 1,400 locations in twenty-two countries.
The proposed route in Maryport would be around the promenade area of the town.
Although Allerdale is leading the initial effort to set up the run, the event, if successful in getting launched, would need to be run by a team of volunteers.
The Council has organised a public meeting on Wednesday, March 4, in The Wave Centre at 7pm for anyone interested in helping to set up the parkrun and helping to organise it when it’s established. The meeting is intended to give people more information about what’s involved and how to take the idea forward.
Cllr Iain Greaney, who represents the Maryport North ward has been involved with the initial planning. He said: “Introducing a parkrun in Maryport will have great benefits for the town and will give residents and visitors a chance to take part in something which really helps enhance health and wellbeing.
“You don’t have to be a runner to get involved. We’re on the lookout for volunteers to help with the administration and organisation of the event and everyone is welcome to come and find out more.”
Cllr Mike Johnson, deputy leader and executive member for economic growth, community development and placemaking, said: “As a council we’ve got big plans for Maryport through our regeneration scheme and really want to help improve the town for residents, workers and visitors.
“It’s not just about big developments though, we’re keen to help the community thrive in a number of ways and a parkrun would really be an asset to Maryport.”
For more information on the parkrun contact Anna Chippendale, the Council’s events manager, on anna.chippendale@allerdale.gov.uk.
