People put best foot forward for first Harleston Magpies Parkrun of the year

Runners and walkers braved freezing conditions as they made good on their promise to start 2025 as they mean to go on.

The hardy group – many sporting hats and gloves to keep the cold at bay – were at Harleston Magpies Hockey Club on Saturday’s for the town’s 167th Parkrun.

Event director Tom Pullinger said the wintry landscape meant participants timed their arrival.

“Due to the temperature, everyone hid in their cars until the last minute,” he said. “It meant we had no idea how many would be coming.

“Then, with five minutes to go, everyone appeared and we had more than 70 people in the end.”

Mr Pullinger said average numbers continued to increase week by week, with a Christmas Day run attracting a record turnout of 136 people.

“We want people to come along and to not feel like they have to run,” he said. “Hopefully, they will embrace the sense of community and support that we have built here.

“For your mental and physical health, it is great way to get some fresh air at the start of the weekend.

“There is always a lovely, positive atmosphere and we welcome runners, walkers and dog walkers – and anyone thinking of coming along should not be put off by the word ‘run’. It’s up to you how you take on the course.”

The 5km event is supported by a team of volunteers, who Mr Pullinger was quick to praise.

“Some Parkruns struggle to get people to marshal but we never have that issue,” he said. “In November, we already had a full rota of volunteers for Christmas Day – that is how dedicated they are.

“I would like to thank Harleston Magpies for their support and to all the people who join us to do the route every week: you make us what we are.”