Whittlesey Parkrun How to develop a community activity.

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. Said the American scientist Margaret Mead.

Geoff Howes created the Whittlesey Park Run with the help of some local runners, many from Thorney Running Club a modest donation from Whittlesey Town Council and the organisation that promotes Parkrun nationally and even internationally.

The events take place at 9:00 every Saturday morning and are set up by volunteers, there is no charge to join in and progress in your achievements over the 5kM event (not a race) is fed back to individuals including global and statistics enough for anyone.

There are over 3million Parkrunners, and I am happy to help out by marshalling or timekeeping when I can.

My point is that Geoff has been unable to attend recently, but the team have continued to put on the events every week because they believe in the event, they want to support the scores of Park-Runners that turn up every week to take part, and this is an excellent example of a dedicated group making something happen for the local community.

I would like to recognise all the hard work put in by everyone involved and thank Geoff for seizing the opportunity and making it such a success – get well soon!

Eamonn Dorling