A weekly run enjoyed by dozens of children and young people celebrates its second anniversary this weekend.

Type=image;ImageID=13468;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=David and Daniel Plimmer;TitleClass=strong;

Type=image;ImageID=13469;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Beth Lister volunteers at Junior Parkrun;TitleClass=strong;

The Wednesfield Junior Parkrun gives 4 to 14 year olds the chance to complete a 2km circuit around Wednesfield Park every Sunday morning.

Those taking part can run, jog or walk for their own enjoyment and at their own pace, and parents are able to join in if they wish.

Wednesfield Junior Parkrun was launched in 2015 thanks to support from the City of Wolverhampton Council's Public Health team and members of Wolverhampton and Bilston Athletics Club. It takes place thanks to the efforts of volunteers who set up, manage and marshal the route, supporting the participants all the way around the course until everyone has finished.

The popular event celebrates its second birthday this Sunday (6 August, 2017), with a party, and participants are encouraged to come in superhero fancy dress. Beat the Street, which took the City by storm earlier this year, will also be joining in the fun, with spot prizes up for grabs - people can pick up their game card at the registration point on Sunday.

Councillor Paul Sweet, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: "The Junior Parkrun is a fantastic way for children and young people to get exercise, enjoy some fresh air and make new friends.

"It is well loved by children and parents alike and has had a very successful first two years, so I'd encourage young people to come along this weekend and have a go."

Daniel Plimmer, aged five, said: "I look forward to taking part in the Junior Parkrun each week because of the lovely people who cheer me on, and I get to run with my dad which is great."

Father David added: "Being a regular parkrunner on the longer 5k runs, it's fantastic that I get to take part with Daniel in an event designed just for kids.

"Through his junior parkruns, Daniel has developed an appreciation of the importance of health and fitness, and is also supporting others through volunteering, which at the age of five is brilliant.

"I would encourage people to get involved as it is such a friendly atmosphere, promotes great values and best of all it's free."

Beth Lister, aged 9, volunteers as a Junior Parkrun director. She said: "I love volunteering at the Junior Parkrun because I like to encourage the children to run their best. I have a choice to run or volunteer if I want to, and my ambition is to become a run director one day."

The Junior Parkrun takes place at Wednesfield Park every Sunday morning and is open to all children aged four to 14. Please meet by the play area at 8.45am. For more details, and to register to take part or volunteer to help out, please visit Type=links;Linkid=6524;Title=Facebook;Target=_blank;.

Adults and the young people aged over 14 can take part in the Wolverhampton Parkrun, which takes place at West Park every Saturday at 9am.

  • released: Thursday 3 August, 2017