MALDON was the venue for the UK's 2009th Parkrun at the weekend when dozens of runners turned out to pound the pathways of Promenade Park.
Parkrun, a national project that encourages people to get fit by hosting free, volunteer-led runs in parks across the UK, came to the town for the first time on Saturday, when 143 runners took part.
Now people can join the 5km timed runs every Saturday from 9am at the amphitheatre in Promenade Park.
Volunteer organiser Sue Smith, 42, who lives in Maldon and has organised similar events across Essex, said: "The event went really well, we were all pleased with the turnout as this was our first one.
"We would encourage anyone that didn't turn up last week to get down to the park this week to join in."
The Maldon Parkrun follows the event in Chelmsford's Central Park two weeks ago. It was attended by Eddie Izzard in conjunction with Join In, an initiative taking place in the Olympic Games anniversary period between July 27 and September 9, to renew the volunteering spirit after the Games Makers' success last year.
Ms Smith said: "It's a really good excuse to get out and run – I only started to run last year and I really enjoy it.
"Before long I found myself organising similar events in Chelmsford but it is great to have one in the town you live."
Ms Smith insists that the Parkrun is not a race and although times are recorded runners only compete against themselves.
"The Parkrun is all about inclusivity – whether you are old or young, an experienced runner or someone trying out running for the first time, it's the ideal distance.
"We have mothers with their children in buggies and people running with their dogs too."
All participants for Parkrun need to register at www.parkrun.org.uk to obtain a unique bar code before they take part. The event is free and each person's time is entered on to a national database for their 5km run or walk.
Parkrun events are organised by volunteers – so if you would like to help, e-mail maldonprom helpers@parkrun.com
"We do need some help so anyone that feels like they can help out with volunteering for the event and meet some new people whilst getting fit should get in touch," Ms Smith said.
"The roles are all very simple and people don't need to make any commitment to be there every week, occasional helping is just as appreciated."
Visit www.parkrun.org.uk for more details.
