On Sunday, 12 July, Wixams hosted its first junior parkrun, with runners and families labelling it an “instant hit”, allowing it to to return every Sunday morning as a weekly fixture of the community.
Sponsored by Urban and Civic, who are one of the main developers in Wixams, the event has given youngsters from the local area the chance to take part in a regular event right on their doorstep.
The run begins in Wixams Town Park on Fisherswood Road.
And tackling a 2km route has become a popular way for youngsters to begin their Sunday mornings, with marshal duties handled by local resident volunteers from the town.
“We’re delighted to have helped bring junior parkrun to Wixams and to see it bringing families together every Sunday morning”, says parkrun Support Ambassador, Beverley Gous.
“It’s wonderful to see children enjoy being active, making new friends and building healthy habits, while parents, carers and volunteers create a real sense of community.”
Entry for runners is completely free, and begins every Sunday morning at 9am sharp.
“The beauty of parkrun is that it’s free and everyone can get involved by walking, running, volunteering or simply watching”, adds Beverley.
“Seeing so many smiles each week is a wonderful reminder of the positive impact parkrun can have on physical and mental wellbeing, while helping to build stronger, healthier and more connected communities.”
“A staple of Wixams life”
Those behind the new community event are hoping it will help youngsters from their device screens and into the open air, all while making friends along the way.
Jordan Payne, Communications and Partnerships Manager at Urban & Civic, said: “Providing opportunities for young people to get outside, be healthy, and make new friends is a big part of how we can make a difference at Wixams.
“By partnering with parkrun to deliver Wixams’ first junior parkrun, we’re now able to offer a weekly Sunday run, led by parkrun and their fantastic team of volunteers who give their own time to help run the event.
“We’re delighted at the growing number of kids turning up, and we’re looking forward to seeing this become a staple of Wixams life for years to come.”
All further information on how you can get involved can be found here.
Anyone who can spare an hour on a Sunday morning to help should get in touch with the parkrun team on wixamstownjuniors@parkrun.com.
