Scunthorpe’s hugely popular Parkrun, which attracts hundreds of runners every week, has been given a cash boost by British Steel.
The company has bought specialist PA equipment for the event to ensure its growing number of members can be safely briefed at the free weekly sessions.
Parkrun is an international initiative aimed at providing accessible community running events to people of all ages and abilities, and since its launch in Scunthorpe three years ago the Central Park event has gained over 5,800 registered members.
More than 400 people attend each Saturday morning session and the British Steel equipment was used for the first time this weekend.
British Steel’s Human Resources Director, Paul Martin, said: “We’re delighted to be able to help Scunthorpe Parkrun grow.
“It is a great success story and it’s very encouraging to see thousands of people from the Scunthorpe area showing an interest in running, health and fitness.
“The support we’ve given will ensure the events continue to run safely as the demand continues to grow.”
The weekly timed sessions see participants run or walk around the 5km Central Park course, which is safely marshalled by local volunteers.
Scunthorpe Parkrun Executive Run Director, Michelle Dawson, said, “The new PA system is going to be a huge asset to what has become a very well-attended event.
“In a town that is known for its steel industry it's great to see that British Steel have supported an event that is helping to improve the health and wellbeing of residents living in the local community.
“The equipment will allow us to clearly communicate with all participants helping to ensure the event runs safely and smoothly. It also gives us the opportunity to easily communicate special announcements with our Parkrun community.”
Parkrun was started in 2004, and has since become a global initiative with more than 2-million members. Inclusivity lies at its heart, with people of all ages and abilities taking advantage of the opportunity to get together with people from their local community to improve their health.
Lead Customer Service Representative for British Steel, Jayne Eaton, joined Scunthorpe Parkrun in February 2013. She said, “I have made so many friends through attending the weekly Parkrun, you feel part of a huge family.
“I love how many people have got into running through Parkrun. Both my daughters have completed it and my youngest, who hated running in the beginning, now actually misses it if she doesn’t attend. She's gone from run / walking it in about 45 minutes to running the whole thing in just over 27 minutes and there's no way I can keep up with her now.”
Further information about Scunthorpe Parkrun is available by clicking here.
New members should register online to receive a unique barcode which will enable them to access their finishing times and track progress. The organisation also welcomes volunteers to help ensure the events run safely and smoothly. Potential volunteers can contact the organisers by emailing scunthorpehelpers@parkrun.com